METHODS

In this section, we are showing the tools , description of area, and the procedures we had to take in order to make the investigations possible.

Locations &

Fill out a data sheet w/environmental conditions
Assign a field number to the area you will sample
- Take photos of arthropod, then attempt to capture it
- Record arthropod with images
- Identity arthropod using iNaturalist
If arthropod was found on a plant, record type of plant & location of arthropod on plant (stem, leaf, flower, etc)

Materials: For this investigation you need a data sheet, metal brackets, isopropyl alcohol, plastic cups, a trowel, a phone or field guide, and a tile
Choose a location for the pitfall trap. The location should be an area where the ground is relatively flat, the soil is not heavily compacted, and is difficult for people to see when walking by.
It is easier to do this with multiple people, as one can dig the hole while the other does identification for plants in the surrounding area. Additionally using an app such as Epicollect would allow for an easier time consolidating data and recording
Observe and record the surroundings of your location (trees, plants, etc.) and if you are using a recording app log them in the designated Epicollect project
Using the trowel, dig a hole that is deeper and wider than the cups
Place the two cups in the hole (one cup inside of the other)
Push dirt into all of the empty space around the cups. Make sure there are no gaps between the outside of the cups and surrounding soil. The top of the cups should be below the ground surface. It's ok if you get soil in the cup.
Carefully remove the inner/top cup and dump out
any soil or debris
Fill the inner cup about halfway with isopropyl alcohol

Materials: Sweep net, a clear plastic bag like a Ziploc bag, phone.
Choose a location (ex.grassland area) that brings no harm to the sweep net.
Positioning: Hold the net with the hoop near the ground in front of you.
Begin sweeping by swinging the net side to side making a horizontal 8 figure and taking 1 step per sweep.
After 10 sweeps, quickly shake the net to force insects at the bottom.
Close the net, trapping the insects inside then invert the net bag to contain them.
Carefully transfer the insects into bag.
Finally, with a phone, use the iNauralist app to identify the insects.

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