Aquatic insects are used to check water quality in Colombia. A review of 109 studies shows an increase in research over the past 20 years. Most studies focus on Andean regions and rivers, with less attention to other areas and lakes. Agriculture is the main land use affecting water quality. Common methods used are BMWP and diversity indices. More research is needed in lakes and other regions like the Amazon and Orinoquia. Traditional methods need updating to better understand the relationship between insects and water quality.