A Rapid Method to Confine and Safely Handle Bees in the Field

Our research aims to find a non-lethal manner to quickly and easily take pictures of specific diagnostic body features that will allow us to identify certain at-risk bee taxa. An added benefit is that we can simultaneously collect genetic and pollen samples. Many bee taxa need to be inspected underneath a microscope to identify key features that distinguish them from other species. We needed a method in the field to do this while minimizing stress on these understudied and at-risk organisms. This protocol lets users manipulate live organisms to safely examine their physical features closely and document organisms via macro photography. This minimizes harm too and handling of the organism and enables the user to get back to surveying quickly.

This novel protocol represents a straightforward method to collect critical data on a variety of insect pollinator species and can be easily modified to perform additional research related tasks. As a result, it is an inexpensive, adaptable, and cost saving addition to the researcher toolkit. Our lab will continue to focus on research that helps inform at-risk species conservation and recovery actions.

[Narrator] After capturing the bee of interest in the net bag, ensure that the bee is near the tip of the bag. With one hand, grasp the net bag immediately below the specimen. Then hold the net bag so that the tip is oriented upwards, and the net opening hangs below. Open the resealable sample bag using the other hand guide the resealable sample bag in the net opening until it reaches the hand immediately below the specimen. Carefully loosen the grip on the specimen just enough to allow the hand holding the resealable sample bag to move into the confined area with the specimen. Apply pressure on either side of the seal or twist the bag with the thumb and middle finger below the seal to open wide enough to allow the insect specimen to enter. Position the resealable sample bag opening above the specimen. Orient the hand containing the resealable sample bag towards the sun or sky to facilitate specimen movement into the bag. Once the specimen is inside, firmly seal the resealable sample bag. Remove the resealable sample bag containing the specimen from the insect net. Use scissors to diagonally cut one of the two unsealed corners of the resealable sample bag. Manipulate the specimen to ensure it moves headfirst toward the cut corner hole. Once the bee's head is protruding from the bag, gently press the surrounding plastic to tighten it around the insect restricting its movement. Next, position the bag so that the insect head is directly over the labeled collection container containing buffer solution or ethanol. Using clean and sterilized dissecting scissors. Cut a portion of one antenna segment and collect the sample in the container. Secure the tissue sample collection container lid, and rotate the container to suspend the sample within the solution. Place the tissue sample collection container in a cool shaded place, protecting it from sunlight.