Benthic Macroinvertebrates — Soldiers2Scientists

Analyzing Benthic Macroinvertebrates

In order to support Jonathan’s efforts with the fisheries, the S2S team helped him collect different types of bugs including Mayflies, Stone Flies, Caddisflies, and Flatworms. These critters were gathered from Snake Creek, Mill Creek, Lehman’s Creek, Baker Creek, and Strawberry Creek. The team divided the various creeks into subsections and performed water quality, water flow, and substrate analysis to better understand the health of the ecosystem for the trout populations.

The specimens were then sent off to The University of Utah for further microscopic analysis; these bugs represent the foundation of the trout’s food chain. This work helped Jonathan get a better understanding of the size and abundance of the available food supply and painted a clear picture of the overall health of the fishery ecosystem. Another key project was to assess their water quality. Water samples were taken and temperature was recorded.

Rattlesnakes

Bristlecone Pines