Robert Aquilina

MSc, MCIEEM(rtd)

“I am an independent ecological consultant of 22 years experience, specialising in freshwater ecology, especially bio assessment of water quality and conservation value using macroinvertebrates.

I am also involved in a range of voluntary activities to support the wider recognition of the value of freshwaters, from running the Dorset Freshwater Recording Group to training courses,wildlife pond advice and surveys.”

Accreditations & Licences

• Environment Agency accredited River Habitat Surveyor experienced in carrying out RIVPACS and PSYM surveys
• Natural England protected species licences for specialist invertebrate surveys including Fairy shrimp (Chirocephalus), Medicinal leech (Hirudo medicinalis) and Southern damselfly (Coenagrion mercuriale)
• Full member of the Chartered Institute of Ecology & Environmental Management (CIEEM).

Consultancy Services

• Covering southern England and South Wales
• Freshwater habitat assessments using standard survey techniques
• Macroinvertebrate identification to species level, interpretation and management recommendations
• Wildlife pond design, restoration, mitigation and assessment
• Species specific surveys, including Great Crested Newts (eDNA), Water Voles, Fish (electro-fishing surveys), Crayfish (eDNA), Fairy Shrimp and other freshwater iteprotected invertebrates.

Training Courses & Workshops

Robert runs training courses and workshops on:

• Pond Creation and Management
• Pond Surveys
• Aquatic Plant Identification
• Aquatic Invertebrate Identification

Courses & Workshops are run for organisations such as The Conservation Volunteers and the Freshwater Habitats Trust. Robert also offers bespoke courses to community groups, Wildlife Trusts and water companies. Please contact Robert to discuss your training needs.