Benthic Macroinvertebrates and Ecosystems

Emma, a watershed steward, explains the role of benthic macroinvertebrates in ecosystems. These creatures live on creek floors, are visible to the naked eye, and lack backbones. They consume detritus, contributing to the food chain by becoming prey for other animals. Emma highlights different habitats like riffles and pools, and how macroinvertebrates breathe and feed. She discusses their ecological importance and how they indicate water health. The video concludes by emphasizing their role in nutrient cycling and ecosystem support.

What is the primary responsibility of a watershed steward?

• To remove all plants and animals from a watershed

• To build new watersheds

• To take care of a watershed that is not theirs

• To own and manage a watershed

What does 'benthic' refer to in the term 'benthic macroinvertebrates'?

• Living on land

• Living in the air

• Living in trees

• Living under the water, specifically on the floor of a creek or stream

What is a riffle in a creek?

• A dry area next to the creek

• A place where the creek is blocked by rocks

• A fast-moving, shallow part of the creek

• A deep, slow-moving part of the creek

How do mayflies breathe underwater?

• Through their skin

• Through their legs

• Using gills that filter out dissolved oxygen

• By coming to the surface for air

What do caddisflies use to protect their soft bodies?

• Bubbles

• Cases made out of rocks or other materials

• Sand

• Leaves

What is the primary diet of caddisflies?

• Fish

• Microbes that decompose leaves

• Leaves

• Algae

Which animals are directly fed by benthic macroinvertebrates?

• Birds, frogs, salamanders, and fish

• Only fish

• Only birds

• Only mammals

What would happen if there were no benthic macroinvertebrates in a creek?

• Nothing would change

• More fish would appear

• The food web would be disrupted

• The creek would become cleaner

How do scientists use benthic macroinvertebrates to assess water quality?

• By observing the color of the water

• By analyzing the type and number of macroinvertebrates present

• By measuring the water temperature

• By counting the number of fish

Which macroinvertebrate is sensitive to pollution and cannot survive in dirty water?

• Mayflies

• All of the above

• Black fly larvae

• Caddisflies