ontario benthos biomonitoring network (obbn) - basic training course

the ontario benthos biomonitoring network (obbn) is an aquatic macroinvertebrate biomonitoring network for ontario’s lakes, streams, and wetlands. this course covers biomonitoring theory, sampling methods, benthic-invertebrate identification, and bioassessment calculations. the training is recommended for anyone interested in using benthic macroinvertebrates to monitor streams or lakes using provincially standardized methods. participants demonstrating proficiency are awarded a certificate of network membership.

in this 7-week online version of the obbn starting april 29, 2026, you can expect to learn content independently, as well as with an instructor and class group in zoom meetings. we will meet weekly on wednesdays at 7 pm via zoom. this is designed to help make the course more accessible to 世界杯2022赛程表淘汰赛 outside of thunder bay or professionals with busy working schedules. content on the obbn protocols and theory will be provided with detailed video tutorials, the obbn manual, live discussions, and online exercises. benthic identification will be taught through a combination of independent hands-on projects, video tutorials and exercises that utilise digital vouchers of benthic specimens. there are taxa in the 27 groups that form the minimum taxonomic precision permitted in the obbn.

the majority of video tutorials were recorded and provided by the obbn’s former scientific and administrative lead, dr. chris jones. the proficiency of participants is assessed with tests and exercises. participants who successfully complete the course are recognized as certified obbn members.