Posted: August 8, 2025

Written by: Eily Hegdahl, Winneshiek County Conservation 2025 summer intern

Take a peek in a stream or pond and you might be surprised to see the many different creatures swimming or hiding in the vegetation! Perhaps you’ve seen snails in the algae, or damselflies lighting on a blade of tall grass.

Aquatic macroinvertebrates are small backbone-less organisms that can be seen by the naked eye. Much of their lives are spent in or around water, and they can be found in all freshwater ecosystems around the world. Some species are more sensitive to changes in their water’s characteristics. Because of this, they are important indicators of water quality!

By assessing the types of species found in a particular body of water, you can determine the level of pollution in that ecosystem. Sensitive species are not able to live in highly polluted areas, so they will only be found in water without any contaminants. If you find only tolerant species in a pond, that tells you that the pond is most likely polluted.

How well do you know the aquatic macroinvertebrates of Winneshiek County?

Take the quiz here: Knowing Nature – Aquatic Macroinvertebrates

Each Knowing Nature quiz features species found in Winneshiek County. By the end of the year, we’ll have experience identifying over 100 different types of plants, animals, and fungus!

Want to dive deeper into learning about the wildlife of Winneshiek County? Track seasonal changes and natural wonders with our YouTube playlist: “Noting Nature.”

Thank you to Luther College professor, Birgitta Meade, for compiling these “Knowing Nature” quizzes and allowing us to share them with the wider public.