Hamilton gets BioBlitzed

Graphic: Anouk Wanrooy, Landcare Research

Tracey Edwards uses the microscope to confirm a plant’s identity. (Photo: Janice Meadows

Thomas Wilding describes the fish that are being caught by the DOC scientists. (Photo: David Roper)

Diver Aleki Taumoepeau with some of the items found at the river’s edge. (Photo: Tracey Edwards)

As Rohan Wells maintains communication via the safety tether, a diver searches for aquatic plants along the edge of the river. (Photo: Tracey Edwards)

The diver carries a video camera with a live feed so those on shore can see what’s underwater. (Photo: David Roper)

Hamilton gets BioBlitzed

On a November weekend, an urban section of the Waikato River and the banks and parkland on either side were ‘BioBlitzed’ to catch a snapshot of local biodiversity. BioBlitz is the international brand name for an event that celebrates biodiversity, combining competition, science, and education in a festive atmosphere. It brings together scientists and the public in a race against the clock to identify as many species as possible in a 24-hour biological survey of a particular location.

The Hamilton BioBlitz was organised by the Waikato Biodiversity Forum and headquartered in the Waikato Museum. As scientists discovered plants and animals in the designated area, they counted the species they could identify on the spot and brought the others back to base camp for closer scrutiny. The public looked on while the scientists completed their identifications in a room filled with displays about New Zealand biodiversity. Organisers kept a running tally in the competition to find more species than at other New Zealand BioBlitzes.

NIWA scientists provided expertise about the fish and aquatic plants and insects in the study zone. They worked alongside colleagues from organisations including Landcare Research, the Department of Conservation, Environment Waikato, Hamilton City Council, and Auckland and Waikato universities. It was an opportunity for the locals to see scientists at work and learn more about the biodiversity on their home turf (and river).

The event was a hit with participants of all ages. As the blitz drew to a close on Saturday afternoon, the organisers announced that a total of 948 species of terrestrial and aquatic plants and animals had been identified in a day of BioBlitzing.

For further information, contact:
Thomas Wilding, 0-7-859 1882, [email protected]