Target group: students in grades 10–12
The aim of this activity is to develop a deeper understanding of the environment and evolutionary changes in organisms. Students investigate organisms within a defined area and model food webs in order to evaluate the influence of abiotic, biotic, and human (anthropogenic) factors on ecosystems.
During the programme, students learn how to conduct field research in nature. Using a defined methodology, they determine the water quality of the Museum Reserve’s ponds, using aquatic invertebrates as indicator species. Through this field study, participants learn the basic principles of bioindication and identify organisms using identification guides and classification schemes.
Linked to the Grade 10 Biology course (Biology I – basic course), topic: “The Environment and Evolutionary Changes in Organisms.”
During the activity, students:
- improve their field research skills,
- collect qualitative and quantitative data on invertebrate diversity in water bodies,
- identify observed organisms using identification guides,
- gain an understanding that water bodies differ in hydrological, physical, chemical, and biological characteristics influenced by climate, vegetation, geological conditions, and human activity (such as agriculture and industry).
Students also learn that a large amount of algae in a water body can consume oxygen and microelements, affecting the reproduction of fish and other organisms, while low oxygen concentration may indicate long-term biological imbalance and reduced ecosystem sustainability.
Participation Information
Fee per student: €3.00 + museum admission ticket
(Seasonal admission: €2.00 from 1 May to 31 October; €1.50 from 1 November to 30 April)
Duration: 120 minutes (2 hours)
Group size: up to 30 participants
Season: April – October
Photo: Edgars Semanis
