Rapid bioassessment protocols using benthic macroinvertebrates are often used to monitor and assess water quality. An efficient protocol involves collections of Chironomidae surface-floating pupal exuviae (SFPE). Here, techniques for field collection, laboratory processing, slide mounting, and identification of Chironomidae SFPE are described.
Kranzfelder, P., Anderson, A. M., Egan, A. T., Mazack, J. E., Bouchard, Jr., R. W., Rufer, M. M., Ferrington, Jr., L. C. Use of Chironomidae (Diptera) Surface-Floating Pupal Exuviae as a Rapid Bioassessment Protocol for Water Bodies. J. Vis. Exp. (101), e52558, doi:10.3791/52558 (2015).