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Investigating Invertebrates: Notes from Belize

Brave the rapids and see how students tackle the search for species on our Career Belize program!

Today we spent the day on the river! We started the day by looking for invertebrates to tell us about the water quality of the river.

Students stand on the shore as leader talks

Invertebrates are good indicators of how healthy a system is because different species have different tolerances to pollution. The presence or absence of specific species can provide you with a good idea of how clean the water is.

Student in red life jacket looks at a praying mantis perching on their hand

Student looks in net for species with river in background

 

After we sorted and identified our species, and determined the water was in good health, we set off on our canoeing adventure. We went zigzagging between trees, rocks, and even an iguana falling from the sky (a tree). 

Along the way we stopped to take swim breaks and float in the current down the river. Overall, a fantastic day on the water!

Leader looks in tray to see what species have been collected as student gathered around and look on

See you next post!

– Leaders Claire & Lisa

To learn more about our Career Belize program, click here!

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Eligible for 8th grade*
*These programs are typically for students in grades 9–12, however motivated rising 9th graders will be considered

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