Series: Aquatic Macroinvertebrates in the American Southwest

Aquatic macroinvertebrates are small organisms which live part or all of their lives in water and have no internal skeletal system.

• Article 1: Aquatic Macroinvertebrates - Introduction and Distribution

  

  Aquatic and riparian habitats make up less than 2% of the landmass, but are home to a disproportionately large number of species, making these habitats among the most productive ecosystems in the region. Read more

• Article 2: Aquatic Macroinvertebrates - Habitat and Life History

  

  Like all other organisms, aquatic macroinvertebrates have species-specific habitat requirements that include a range of physical conditions and sources for food. Read more

• Article 3: Aquatic Macroinvertebrates - Ecological Role

  

  Aquatic macroinvertebrates play a key role in nutrient cycling in aquatic ecosystems because they are the primary processors of organic materials. Read more

• Article 4: Aquatic Macroinvertebrates - Status in the Southwest

  

  Across the U.S., aquatic fauna face a greater threat of extinction and population decline than their terrestrial counterparts. Read more

• Article 5: Aquatic Macroinvertebrates - Monitoring

  

  Monitoring aquatic macroinvertebrates is a useful way of investigating aquatic ecosystem health. Read more

• Article 6: Aquatic Macroinvertebrates - Literature Cited

  

  Many resources exist for those wishing to learn more about aquatic macroinvertebrates. Read more