Numerous freshwater insects and arachnids are important indicators for environmental change. In particular, species rich groups, such as water mites, biting- and non-biting midges have great potential in monitoring and assessment of water quality, but they are rarely used due to challenging taxonomies and resource demanding identification. Additionally, many species in these groups have interesting biology and influence each other’s life in several stages. As an example: Larvae of water mites are parasites on aquatic
insects, quite frequently on non-biting midges. With Water M&M we aim to revise the knowledge of Norwegian water mites through targeted sampling in southern Norway. We will DNA barcode all sampled species, have close collaboration with other research- and biosurveillance projects, ensure knowledge transfer from experienced international specialists, and conduct targeted outreach towards schools and the general public. This way, our project will contribute to increased precision in future biomonitoring of water bodies (through metabarcoding), and increase the knowledge of water mites and midges in Norway.
