Wednesday, August 20, 2008

Workshop explores world of aquatics

John Bertrand Friends of the Bosque del Apache NWR

Olympic Games record-breaking swimmer Michael Phelps might be challenged to match aquatic skills on display daily at Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge, for those who know where to look.

On Saturday, Aug. 23, Leigh Ann Vradenburg will provide the key to this hidden aquatic word in a program on the refuge titled "Invertebrate Atlantis: The Amazing World of Aquatic Insects."

"Don't be put off by the big words," Leigh Ann cautioned in an interview, "Invertebrates are just critters without a backbone; insects are tiny animals with a head, thorax, abdomen and three pairs of legs. Aquatic means growing or living in water. We're talking here about underwater bugs."

Using slides, field equipment and microscopes, Leigh Ann will explore the humble underwater beginnings of dragonflies, mosquitoes, beetles and many other insects that are seen on the refuge on a summer's day.

"Some of these critters, when viewed under the microscope, are real performers," Leigh Ann noted.

Leigh Ann, who is the executive director of the Friends of the Bosque del Apache, was introduced to the hidden aquatic world in an undergraduate biology class at Baylor University. Although in graduate study, Leigh Ann moved on to specialize in water quality issues. Aquatic invertebrates have remained a lifelong hobby. As part of the workshop, Leigh Ann will have on display her personal collection of specimens showing the diversity of aquatic insects from the Midwest and southern United States.

The program will begin at 9 a.m. in the Christina Ann Lannan Annex to the Visitor Center with slides and introductory remarks. It will then progress to the field, where participants will join in gathering and analyzing live samples until noon. A hat, sunscreen and mosquito repellant are advised for those who plan to attend.

The workshop is free, but is limited to 20 participants. To make reservations, call 575-835-1828.

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