A checklist of aquatic macroinvertebrates of Uganda

Study Extent

The datasets present a checklist of macroinvertebrates in waterbodies of Uganda

Sampling

One to three samples were taken from each sampling point. When more than one samples were taken, they were mixed to form a composite sample.Samples were concentrated and then placed in labeled sample bottles and preserved with 5% formalin solution. In the laboratory, each sample was rinsed with water and then placed on a white flat-bottomed tray. Macro-invertebrates were sorted, and individual taxa identified to the lowest possible taxonomic level using identification keys.

Quality Control

The samples were immediately processed in the field and treated with formalin to keep the organisms of interest intact. To avoid loss of organisms during sample processing, nets with appropriate mesh sizes were used.

Method steps

1. The checklist was based on taxa collected using a ponar grab or a kick net in rivers and streams. In most cases, three sediment samples were obtained at each site. The three samples were mixed and concentrated to form one composite sample for each site. The composite sample for each site was separately preserved in 5% formalin to maintain the organisms in good condition prior to analysis in the laboratory. In the laboratory, formalin was rinsed off from each sample and placed in white flat-bottomed trays. Using pairs of forceps, all benthic macro invertebrates were sorted from the sediment and the individual taxa identified to the lowest possible taxonomic level using appropriate identification keys.

The geographical extent of the checklist is Uganda