PUBLIC LECTURE: UWA Albany Skywest Public Lecture

From the 'caddis man' to greenhouse gases: on the natural history of fresh waters.

How healthy are freshwater ecosystems? Find out how clever caddis are on the case with Professor Alan Hildrew School of Biological Sciences, University of London. Thursday 15 April, 5.30pm at UWA Albany Centre

Caddis larvae (aquatic insects) produce cases, nets and galleries that have been a source of fascination for scientists, fishers and children alike. The variety of such animals in rivers is widely used to reassure ourselves that our fresh waters are in good health. They can tell us much more, however, and do very 'clever' things that are only now becoming clear. Extending our knowledge of such processes tells us much more about these natural systems and how we can assess their status.

Professor Hildrew is a renowned ecologist with a particular interest in freshwater ecosystems. With over thirty years research experience, predominantly in the UK, he is currently investigating a 'model' stream community, how it has responded to environmental changes, and how its food web is structured. Professor Hildrew is the editor of Freshwater Biology and Chairman of the UK Freshwater Biological Association.