Description of the AQEM/STAR invertebrate database

Abstract

This database contains the macro-invertebrate data that were collected during the AQEM and STAR projects. Samples were taken in 14 European countries using the multi-habitat-sampling (MHS) method as well as the RIVPACS methodology for selected sites. Taxa were identified to the most precise achievable level. Additionally the database contains information on hydromorphology and environmental parameters. The latter include stressor gradients along which the samples were taken. Supplementary fish, macrophyte and diatom data from the STAR project are separately available and can be linked to the invertebrate database. The AQEM and STAR projects were funded by the EU 5th Framework Programme (FP5).