Do you have a river near you? How often do you visit it? A river is more than just a source of water for irrigation or drinking—it plays a profound role in our lives. Some rivers are even inviting enough for swimming, but have you ever paused to appreciate their natural beauty? The soothing flow of water, the rustling leaves, and the vibrant life around them often go unnoticed.
Rivers are home to an incredible diversity of plants, animals, microorganisms, and fungi. The health of these ecosystems is vital not just for wildlife but also for humans.
Take River Sabwani, for instance, nestled within the Ndura Nature Conservancy in Kitale, Trans-Nzoia County. As a tributary of River Nzoia, which flows into Lake Victoria, Sabwani is rich in biodiversity. In September 2023, we hosted a River Bioblitz event here, immersing ourselves in the river’s vibrant ecosystem. A Bioblitz is a focused survey event aimed at identifying as many species as possible in a specific area, often within 24 hours. It’s a perfect blend of exploration and STEAM education, combining observation, inquiry, and hands-on learning.
On that sunny day, the river was calm and alive with energy. Armed with Foldscopes—affordable, portable paper microscopes—we marvelled at the plants and animals we found. Among them was the Lienard’s Achaea, a moth species in the Erebidae family. These lively moths seemed to be everywhere, their movements creating a distinct crackling sound. Some landed unexpectedly on our faces, while others dangled from cobwebs, making their presence both exciting and surprising.
Fast forward to September 2024, and the scene was drastically different. Heavy rains had swollen the river, leaving stagnant pools along the trail. While these conditions welcomed species like damselflies, the absence of the Lienard’s Achaea was striking. What caused their disappearance? Did the floods wash away the plants they depended on? Could stagnant water, with its lower oxygen levels and higher bacterial growth, have disrupted the delicate balance of their habitat?
Every species in a river ecosystem plays a role. Could the introduction of new species, competition for resources, or shifts in temperature and humidity have impacted the survival of these moths?
Suggested Activity for Teachers: River Ecosystem Exploration
Engage your students in exploring these questions with a hands-on activity designed to connect them to their local ecosystems:
- Field Observation: Organize a trip to a nearby river. Equip students with tools like Foldscopes to observe and document the plants and animals they find.
- Research and Inquiry: Encourage students to investigate the species they encounter and their ecological roles.
- Investigative Questions: Use questions to spark curiosity and critical thinking;
- What happens to species when their habitats are flooded?
- How does water quality affect river ecosystems?
- What roles do specific species play, and how do changes in one part of the river affect the others?
- Could environmental shifts or competition from new species impact biodiversity?
- Creative Expression: Have students create posters or digital presentations (using tools like Scratch) to share their findings.
- Action Plan: Facilitate a discussion on how students can protect rivers, such as organizing cleanups or awareness campaigns in their communities.
Rivers like Sabwani are constantly changing, and human actions significantly affect their health. Through this activity, students will not only learn about biodiversity but also be inspired to take an active role in preserving these vital ecosystems.
What will your students discover about their local river? Reach out to us to share your findings, and mark your calendars for our next Bioblitz 2025!