Insects and other invertebrates in rivers are crucial in the cycle of energy in rivers, yet their work often goes unrecognised. They shred the leaves and debris that fall into streams, gather and assimilate the production from algae and bacteria, and consolidate it as prey for many fish, birds, bats and other riverside animals.

The DURESS project is highlighting our dependence on these unsung heroes.  Invertebrates are sensitive to change. for example many are not able to exist in polluted water. DURESS is investigating how much change can occur before we risk loosing the valuable work that invertebrates do for us.