Lab work

Wednesday 28th September 2022

Today I spent my first proper time in the lab. I need to identify my insects to Order level, which means that I need a microscope and some other equipment. I have 12 tubs for each time I set the traps. It is going to take a long time and I am keen to know how quickly I can get one pot done (accurately!). I have a great book that helps with the identification - hopefully I will get to the stage where I can identify most of them without looking at the book. At the moment I am at about 1 hour per pot (down from 1 hour 15 minutes for the first couple!). LOTS of flies - I wish that I had time to get down to the Family level for the flies but I have neither the time nor the experience. I am concerned that Order level will not give me enough detail to get to any conclusions. We shall see.

The picture above is of my lab space - apparently it is my personal space until I finish so I can leave all my stuff there. I feel very privileged.