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The Insect Survey is host to a nationwide network of light-traps and suction-traps that collect invaluable data on the migration of moths, aphids and insect biodiversity more generally.

Access the RIS HERE

About The Insect Survey

The Rothamsted Insect Survey (RIS) has been running two trap networks since 1964. Its long-term data are unique providing information on aphids, larger moths and many other migrating insects to scientists, growers, conservation organisations, individuals and policy makers. As such, the networks represent the most comprehensive standardised long-term data on insects in the World and have a wide range of fundamental and applied uses.

 

The Suction-Trap Network

The suction-trap network began operation on the 29th April 1964 and continues to this day to monitor the aerial fauna migrating at height of 12.2m. Essentially, these suction-traps can be thought of as upside-down hoovers that indiscriminately catch small to medium-sized insects (≤5mg), particularly aphids. Suction-trap catches are monitored daily during the aphid season and weekly at other times.

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