Field Research - New Monitoring Technologies
Acoustic recorder
Automated audio recorders can capture bird vocalizations. It can operate continuously and autonomously, allowing for long-term monitoring without human presence. Advanced software and algorithms can be used to identify species, determine population densities, etc...
Insect camera
Automated insect cameras enable accurate AI-powered insect recognition. This technology reduces the need for manual sampling and allows for high-frequency data collection, improving the accuracy and resolution of biodiversity assessments.
eDNA
Environmental DNA refers to genetic material obtained directly from environmental samples, such as soil, water or air, without the need to capture organisms. eDNA samples provided further insights into the ground-dwelling biodiversity. eDNA metabarcoding (a method of DNA barcoding that uses universal genetic markers to identify DNA of a mixture of organisms) appears to be a promising tool for filling-in the knowledge gap on soil biodiversity.
Remote sensing
This technology is widely used to monitor habitat heterogeneity, vegetation cover, land use changes, and the distribution of different habitats. Remote sensing is essential for large-scale environmental monitoring.
Drone-based systems
Equipped with cameras and sensors to monitor biodiversity and environmental conditions. They can cover large areas quickly and access remote or difficult-to-reach locations.
Traps
Pan traps and vane traps are used to passively collect bees and other (flower-visiting) insects. In the BioMonitor4CAP project, they are used to check and validate the data collected with the new technologies.