Site Assessment Using Invertebrates

A course designed to develop higher level skills in the interpretation of invertebrate survey data.

This course allows learners to gain an understanding of methods for site assessment using invertebrates. The role of sampling protocols will be explored through fieldwork, and a team approach will be taken to gather a set of accurate species records for analysis and interpretation. A variety of approaches to site and habitat assessment will be explored, to demonstrate the strengths and weaknesses of each technique. The relevance of population size, indicator species, habitat fidelity and species assemblages in assessing an invertebrate fauna will be discussed.
Your course takes place on a 12-hectare estate, surrounded by a rich range of habitats, including the River Severn and semi-ancient woodland, set in the heart of Shropshire with views disappearing into Wales.

This is one of a series of courses (Units) run jointly with Manchester Metropolitan University contributing to the MSc Biological Recording and Ecological Monitoring and the Postgraduate Certificate in Biological Recording. MMU students complete assessed work after the course.

Course tutor: Pete Boardman