Professional Ecology Training

Hong Kong’s first Water Beetle Identification Course was held in 2025. This course brings out the unique features and values of water beetles to local ecosystems.

Target Audience

Beetle enthusiasts and those interested to learn more about Hong Kong's biodiversity

Course Features

1. Unit-based learning:
   Unit 1 | Introduction to Water Beetle Ecology
   Unit 2 | Field Observation and Species Identification of Water Beetles
2. Small class size: Only 16 students per class, first-come, first-served. The ratio of instructor to student is approximately 1:8
3. Professional instructors: Both lecture and field instructors have many years of environmental education experience and have participated in local ecological surveys, conservation or research
4. Emphasis on outdoor education: Includes 2 field trips
5. Incorporating Ecological Elements: In addition to learning water beetle identification techniques, participants will also learn about their general situation in Hong Kong and their ecological role
6. Water Beetle Specimen Inspection: Participants will gain a more concrete understanding of the body structures of water beetles

Key Learning Points

1. Overview of water beetles in Hong Kong
2. Basic ecology, morphology, and classification of water beetles
3. Key points for identifying common water beetles in the wild
4. Techniques for finding and observing water beetles

Learning Objectives

1. Understand the ecological role and importance of water beetles
2. Identify 20 common water beetle species in the wild
3. Comprehend water beetle classification techniques
4. Learn the key characteristics for identifying common water beetles in the wild

Time and Format

2 units, approximately 16 hours in total

Language of Instruction

Cantonese

Certificate

Participants attending the entire course received a certificate of completion