Soapbox Science is a novel public outreach platform for promoting women scientists. It aims to bring the general public and scientists together, while also highlighting the work of female scientists.
How do creepy crawlies adapt to living in a watery underworld
My soapbox focused on introducing the public to two common aquatic insects found in Irish waters (Caddisfly and Mayfly) and investigating their adaptations to live in water.
Key facts on Case-building Caddisflies Caddisflies spin silk allowing them to glue the sand and other particles together to form their protective case and attach their case to the rocks in the river. There are around 150 caddisfly species found in Ireland. They all vary in size, shape and most importantly material used to build their cases (leaves, twigs, sand, stones, snail shells). Caddisflies are found in good and moderate water quality where the current is slow flowing and organic material, such as plants, wood and leaves, builds up on the river bed (typically behind and between rocks). They are mostly herbivores eating lots of different algae and plants while some are carnivores eating other insects and animals (predators). But they too are food for fish such as trout and salmon. Key facts on Mayflies A key feature to watch out for are the ‘three tails’ at the end of the body – this is how you know you have a mayfly.Mayflies have streamlined bodies with large legs and gills. Their streamlined bodies help to reduce drag while their large legs allow them to cling on while living in fast flowing waters. Their gills, seen on either side of the lower body segments, beat to aide water movement over the surface. There are 33 species of mayfly found in Ireland, all with various body sizes and shapes. swimming movements such as S-shaped wriggles, while others crawl. Mayflies are found in good water quality systems with high alkaline waters (high calcium conditions) in fast flowing waters. They too are mostly herbivores eating aquatic vegetation while some are also carnivores. They are also an important food source for trout and salmon |
To find out more check out my blog post "Make the most of the experiences that come your way"
All photos are property of Heather Lally