Different aspects of using a new multivariate analysis technique namely detrended canonical correspondence analysis (DCCA), for the elaboration of macrofaunal data from Dutch ditches are shown. In this technique a graphic representation is given of combined main biotic and abiotic parameters. Especially for typological purposes, this technique is promising. A typological scheme resulted from typifying ‘small, stagnant, line-shaped waters' or ditches in the province of Overijssel. All ditches were separated into eight major clusters. The most important related variables were acidity, drought, and stream velocity within which nutrient content/organic load diversified. The Demmerik ditches (see Hpigler and Verdonschot, 1989) represent larger sized ditches on a peaty substrate. They belong to the ‘real ditches’. Their taxon composition is most similar to that of clear, eutrophic, permanent ditches with a densely developed vegetation.