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Taxonomic Certification Examination

Macroinvertebrate Taxonomic Certification

We offer the following exams: citizen scientist (order-level and above), family-level, genus-level. All exams have a three-hour time limit. Visit the Taxa Study List page to see what is covered on each exam.

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 95% or better. As part of this program, the certification credentials remain valid for a period of 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 certification serves as the first step to certification at the species level.

Certification Information

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