Learn about waterbugs at free forum

Small but mighty waterbugs will be in the spotlight at the next free forum at Deception Bay Environmental Hub.

Water bugs provide important ecological functions in freshwater and estuarine and marine aquatic environments.

They recycle nutrients by scavenging dead or decaying bacteria, plants and animals; provide a vital food source for native fish, birds, platypus, frogs and reptiles; and serve as a biological indicator of waterway and bay health.

The Talking about Waterbugs | Freshwater and Marine Waterbugs forum will be held at Deception Bay Hub, 7 Joseph Cres, Deception Bay, on July 17 from 7-9pm.

Representatives from Pine Rivers Catchment Association (PRCA) will speak about freshwater waterbugs and Bob Crudgington from REF Environmental will cover saltwater species.

PRCA runs a RiverWatch program, funded by the Community Bank Samford (Bendigo) in which Environmental Sustainability Rotary Action Group (ESRAG) volunteers participate.

The group will share the latest results from surveys, which have tested ‘the physical and chemical parameters of our waterways’ and report on the number and types of waterbugs in them.

So, why are waterbugs important?

An ESRAG spokesman explains: “Some are more sensitive than others to water pollution. If the sensitive ones are present, water quality is good. If the sensitive ones are absent and only the tolerant ones remain, the water quality is poor and the waterway is polluted.

“Waterbugs also play a large role in freshwater ecosystems by recycling nutrients as well as providing food to higher trophic levels. So, if you kill off the sensitive ones, you affect part of the food chain/web.”

To find out more and to register, visit the website.