Macroinvertebrate Taxonomic Certification
We offer the following exams: citizen scientist (order level and above), family level, and genus level (EPT, General Arthropods, Oligochaeta, and Chironomidae). All exams have a three-hour time limit. Visit the Taxa Study List page to see what each exam covers.
The successful completion of the taxonomic certification process results in a certificate of proficiency in performing taxonomic identifications of freshwater benthic macroinvertebrates. This process includes payment of a certification fee and passing an examination for a particular region and taxonomic group with a score of at least 95%. As part of this program, the certification credentials remain valid for five years.
Diatom Taxonomic Certification
The Level 1 Diatom Taxonomic Certification indicates an up-to-date working knowledge of the diagnostic characteristics of accepted North American inland diatom genera, providing a practical base for proficiency in performing taxonomic identifications of inland diatoms at the genus level. This is the first step toward certification at the species level.
Certification Information
- View testing center locations
- Schedule an exam
- Fees and payment options
- Exam instructions
- Recertification process