(The Ecology of the River Wear)

The River Wear is fortunate to have a huge wildlife resource including rare and endangered species.

Life Cycles

Using the example of certain insect species found in our river, we can show how they develop from their aquatic stages to leave the river to mate and breed before laying their eggs in the river again. We can also cover topics such as fish migration and how animals and plants are dependant on water throughout their lives.

The Food Chain

Aquatic food chains can be complex. We can explain the links between producers, prey and predators, how they are all dependant on each other.

Adaptations

Water is essential for all life, but some species don't only need it to drink, they live in it. And water isn't the same throughout the river's course. Some species are adapted to live in fast flowing streams, others prefer slower rivers and some can survive in harsh saline environments at the river's mouth. We'll help look at how these species make the best out of where they live.

Problems & Issues

The River Wear isn't without its share of problems. Pollution, invasive species, obstructions and disturbance can all have a negative effect on the river's wildlife. We'll explain what the problems are and what we can all do to help.