26th and 27th of April 2023 took place a workshop for Tatra National Park employees introducing to DNA barcoding, European biodiversity, knowledge gaps and sampling methods connected with setting the Malaise traps for the high mountains arthropod diversity survey. Setting of MT in two altitudes were the weather conditions allowed for the starting the survey, then the total of 20 weeks of collecting samples from MT by the TNP employees according to T4.4 SOPs.
Goals
Introducing TNP employees to the topic of DNA barcoding and its importance;
Setting the traps in Tatra mountains for the high mountain sampling;
Introducing TNP employees to the method of collecting and labeling the samples.
Day 1: theoretical part
- introduction to DNA barcoding and biodiversity of mountain systems in Europe stressing the gaps in insect biodiversity knowledge
- presentation on methods of samples collecting and species identification
- discussion
Day 2: practical part
- insect sampling methods practical demonstration, setting of Malaise traps (MT) according to the protocol within the BGE task T4.4 (ultimately the total of 10 MT in five altitudes), labeling the samples and sample/ site documentation
Feedback summary
Theoretical part went well and ended with a fruitful discussion with the TNP employees, who turned out to be very interested in the DNA barcoding topic, as well as in insect diversity exploration, being aware of the low level of knowledge on arthropod diversity..
During the practical part it was possible to set four MTs in two altitudes (the lower ones), as snow was still present in higher altitudes. Park employees have got acquainted with the construction of the Malaise trap; 4 traps were set together with park employees. TNP employees were introduced to the protocol of collecting samples and site documentation.
We had no problems during this workshop. The only thing we are afraid of is the fragile construction of the trap, which is also quite tall.
