Biology Stretch and Challenge Event
On the crisp mid-morning of 25 September, thirteen Sixth Form Biologists ventured down to the newly available garden behind Aquis Court, to undertake a sampling activity alongside three esteemed entomologists.
Led by Dr Max Barclay, Dr Chris Lyal (OA 1970) and Dr Michael Geiser, the students and faculty members were given a short, but thorough introduction on how we would approach the survey alongside instructions on how to use what appeared to be somewhat basic, but invaluable sampling techniques. We were taught the art of using sweep nets and beating trays, which would allow the field investigators to quickly collect an array of different species of beetle and other insects. The sweep nets were quick and accurate, allowing us to rapidly collect a range of samples from softer foliage, while the beating tray and complementary beating stick allowed for a less precise, but equally efficient collection of insects. These two methods of sampling were of course accompanied by searching through debris and plant life by hand, which often resulted in the capture of a more impressive specimen, a notable catch being a stag beetle, caught by Dr Tanner, which many of the students had never seen before in the wild.
At around 1:30pm it was time for Lunch. The Chair of Governors, Mr Neil Osborn, kindly offered to buy all those who attended pizza, which proved to be a perfect choice to refuel us budding entomologists, before we returned to the survey site to continue sampling.
By the end of the day, we had collected over 40 different species of insects from the new garden, which was aided by the phone application iNaturalist that was used to photograph and identify the species, whilst also contributing to the national data base. This would show the distribution of the species, providing biologists with a better understanding of the nation’s biodiversity, so steps can be taken to preserve this nature. The images of the species would also face a panel of specialists, to authenticate and update the automatic identification, to fully ensure the application remained precise, and excitingly to check whether any previously undiscovered species were found.
We were informed that some of the insects sampled on the day would be taken away to laboratories, where their genomes would be sequenced, and the results published to online data bases to aid with future classification of the insects. This would allow entomologists, like Dr Max Barclay, to study the genetic differences and similarities between different types of insects and beetle.
We would like to thank the three entomologists for their knowledge, enthusiasm and help with finding and recording these fascinating creatures. As a collective, we hope our survey helped with updating online databases, alongside protecting our country’s biodiversity in the future. We would also like to thank Mr Shirbini, Dr Eastmond and Dr Tanner for helping setup and run the day, as well as Mr Neil Osborn and Mrs Holly Smith for organising a lovely lunch and helping with such an enjoyable few hours.
- Barney, Lower Sixth Form
