International Day for Biodiversity – Gamuda Gardens
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Private sector performance
International Day for Biodiversity 2023
“Wonders of Wetlands”
Activity conducted by Wetlands International Malaysia
Date : 10th – 11th June 2023
Organizer : Gamuda Land
Venue : Gamuda Gardens, Selangor
Workshop : Junior Water Scientist
Participants : 7 – 12 years old
Objectives :
i) To give early exposure on the importance of wetlands ecosystem
ii) To identify the water quality of the ponds in Gamuda Garden through hands-on activities
Morning Session (EPT Index Activity):
EPT Index stands for Ephemeroptera (Mayflies), Plecoptera (Stoneflies) and Tricoptera (Caddisflies), used as a bio-indicator to determine the condition of the wetlands (streams, ponds, lakes). The presence of these aquatic insects could indicate the water is at good/clean category while the presence of other creatures such as leeches and worms indicate a moderate/gross pollution category.
For this activity, participating kids went to the nearest pond where they collected insects from the water and placed them into provided containers. They were then required to identify the types of insects and other animals they found and to score the level of water quality. A mini tour around the lakes was also was done to allow the kids to observe their surroundings and note the different types of flora and fauna.
Evening session (Water Quality Test Activity):
Water quality describes the condition of the water (chemical, physical, physical, biological) with respect to its suitability for a particular purpose. It is measured by various parameters, and this activity only focusses on pH, turbidity, dissolved oxygen (DO), nitrate and phosphate level.
Water samples from different ponds were prepared and the kids for this session conducted simple tests using litmus paper, color chart and reagents. They were able to observe color changes during the experiments and compared which ponds have better water quality. At the end of both activities, kids understood the importance of keeping the wetlands free from pollution that will directly impact the water resources.
Expected outcomes:
1. Understand the importance of wetlands in providing habitat for flora and fauna and providing
clean water resources for society.
2. Instill an early interest and active participation in the protection and preservation of
wetlands.
3. Knowledge on simple experiments to determine the water quality of wetlands (ponds, lakes,
streams).
Of course the kids had loads of fun and enjoyed the sessions!
