Invertebrates

Invertebrates

Introduction to Invertebrates

are a group of animals that have no backbone. On a world scale huge numbers of invertebrates have been lost as a result of habitat destruction. The exact number of species lost is unknown. In the UK once familiar species such as bumblebees and many moths and butterflies have suffered huge recent declines.

Protection Under UK Legislation

A number of invertebrates are offered full protection under the Wildlife & Countryside Act 1981 (as amended). This legislation makes it illegal to:

Intentional kill, injure, or take a scheduled animal;
Damage, destroy, or obstruct access to any structure or place used by a scheduled animal for shelter or protection; and
Disturb of any scheduled animal occupying such a structure or place.

Survey Methods

There are a number of techniques for surveying invertebrates. ECOSA select the most suitable technique, depending on the sites habitat type and the nature and status of the species to be surveyed for.

Pitfall Trap Surveys

The pitfall trapping technique involves the use of a pit in the ground into which invertebrates fall and cannot escape. The trap is filled with an aqueous solution designed to trap, kill and preserve invertebrates. This technique is useful for sampling ground dwelling species. An example of terrestrial survey methods is provided below.

Sweep Netting Surveys

Sweep netting involves the use of a strong net for 'sweeping' through low herbage, bushes and tree foliage, in order to dislodge any invertebrates within the vegetation. The invertebrates are then caught within the net bag.

Light Trap Surveys

Light traps emit high levels of ultra violet light which attracts moths. Moths attracted to the trap are caught alive within the main body of the trap. The surveyor can then record and release the catch. This method is effective way of surveying moths.

Grubbing Surveys

Grubbing involves direct searching techniques, whereby the surveyor will search, sieve, beat and dig to record invertebrate species.

ECOSA Services

ECOSA has expertise for surveying a range of invertebrate habitats, which include wetlands, herb-dominated grassland, scrubland, coastal and dune systems, mature and veteran trees and heathlands. ECOSA have carried out invertebrate surveys for lepidoptera, odonata, hymenoptera, coleoptera, diptera, arachnids, and orthoptera.

Links

Buglife

Disclaimer

Although we have taken great care to ensure that our information and advice is correct, we cannot accept any responsibility for any incorrect information, loss or damage incurred arising from the use of the information published on our web site. For further advice, detailed surveys and quotations please contact ECOSA.

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