EnviroMatters Magazine Spr-Sum 2024-25

14

Eye-opening world of

VERY TOLERANT – Backswimmer

waterbugs

TOLERANT – Damselfly larvae

Tiny wriggling waterbugs have a massive impact on our environment, and on students at Ripley Valley State Secondary College. Teacher Anastasia Constable said it could be easy to miss how much life is hiding in a waterway. ‘Waterbugs are such a great indicator of water health that it helps paint a big picture of a waterway,’ she said. ‘When we turn on our microscopes and have a really good look, it’s possible to see some of their really interesting features like tufts of hair or even their tiny mouths as they’re chewing away.

‘It’s been amazing to watch the anticipation our students’ faces as they search through their samples to find waterbugs. They love comparing to see who has the more weird and wonderful creatures!’ The school’s Ignite Excellence Academy have also shared their new waterbug knowledge with the public at the World Science Festival in 2024. ‘Watching our students find excitement and joy in their discoveries has been a brilliant experience. Even better was watching them eagerly sharing it with others,’ Ms Constable said. ‘That joy of learning becomes infectious and exploring the tiny world and massive impact of waterbugs has been a great way to do that for our students. And honestly, I think the teachers have enjoyed it just as much as the students. Best tip for teachers – quality gumboots.’

SENSITIVE – Caddisfly larvae

VERY SENSITIVE – Mayfly larvae

BORROW A WATERBUG KIT FOR YOUR SCHOOL

Council’s EnviroEd program has waterbug kits for schools to borrow, with everything a class needs. We can also suggest local creek sites for you to visit! Email enviroed@ipswich.qld.gov.au