We will continue the BUGS Project by using the areas surrounding the trees as collection and observation sites for insects. We will collect insects twice a year, once in the autumn and again in the spring. Our first collection will take place the week of September 25th. We will follow the established BUGS protocols.
Students should try to answer the following questions through direct observation and internet research.
1. Does the insect have a beneficial, neutral, or detrimental impact on the plant?
2. Is the insect collecting pollen or any other substance from the plant?
3. Is the insect eating part of the plant or looking for prey on the plant?
4. If the insect is eating the plant, what part of the plant is it eating?
5. Does the plant have any mechanical defenses? If so, how does the insect avoid them?
6. How might the insect defend itself from predators?
7. Is the insect camouflaged?