Between 2010 and 2014, we collected only caddisflies (Trichoptera) using an "automated light trap". This had to be taken up the stream in the evening, so that we could catch the boat home on the way back in the daylight. Then, the next day, we emptied the trap and collected the catch. At this time, 2-3 light traps were placed on the creek being tested. From 2014 onwards, the search for caddisflies was mainly done by collecting them in advance, and from 2017 onwards, we no longer use traps.
During the day, field surveys focused on dragonflies, land snails and beetles. At night, we lure caddisflies by placing a light bulb over a white sheet and collecting them one by one. In 2014, we reached the south and west side of the island, where we went into the stream valleys alone or with friends from Wailebet village (Kris, Rony) for 2-3 days.
In 2018, we found a pond covering several hectares, where we specifically conducted dragonfly surveys. Interestingly, the freshwater lake became saltwater in 2020. Presumably due to a lack of rainfall, the freshwater layer that had stratified over the brackish water evaporated.
In 2019, we will start a systematic survey of freshwater fish - using an electric fishing machine. We have supplemented our surveys with various nets and netting. However, this work is more time and equipment intensive than our previous surveys. In addition, the equipment is considerably heavier (over 20 kg).
In fact, we collect specimens/specimens of all taxa (mosses, molluscs, land snails, worms, etc.) for which we know experts.
During field surveys we have practically explored and navigated (some several dozen times) almost all the permanent watercourses of the island.
The upper part of most of them has never been visited by humans.
During the day, field surveys focused on dragonflies, land snails and beetles. At night, we lure caddisflies by placing a light bulb over a white sheet and collecting them one by one. In 2014, we reached the south and west side of the island, where we went into the stream valleys alone or with friends from Wailebet village (Kris, Rony) for 2-3 days.
In 2018, we found a pond covering several hectares, where we specifically conducted dragonfly surveys. Interestingly, the freshwater lake became saltwater in 2020. Presumably due to a lack of rainfall, the freshwater layer that had stratified over the brackish water evaporated.
In 2019, we will start a systematic survey of freshwater fish - using an electric fishing machine. We have supplemented our surveys with various nets and netting. However, this work is more time and equipment intensive than our previous surveys. In addition, the equipment is considerably heavier (over 20 kg).
In fact, we collect specimens/specimens of all taxa (mosses, molluscs, land snails, worms, etc.) for which we know experts.
During field surveys we have practically explored and navigated (some several dozen times) almost all the permanent watercourses of the island.
The upper part of most of them has never been visited by humans.