A MECHANICAL TRAP FOR SAMPLING POPULATIONS OF SMALL, ACTIVE INSECTS

Abstract

It is difficult to estimate numbers of small active insects, particularly predators, in fruit-tree canopies because of the frequent and rapid movement of these species. The conventional method of sampling such populations requires tapping the branch to dislodge the insects which fall to a cloth tray from which they are recovered and counted. However, many species take to flight very rapidly and escape before identification is possible. A sampling method was required which would rapidly enclose a volume of the canopy without disturbing the resident population, thereby eliminating inaccuracies in the sample obtained. This note describes a remotely operated mechanical trap which can be placed on a limb in the tree canopy. The insects thus trapped can be immobilized, counted, and identified.