Fénycsapdák

Fénycsapdák, or light traps, are devices used to attract and capture insects and other small nocturnal animals using light. They are a common tool in entomology and ecological research for sampling insect populations and studying their behavior. The principle behind a fénycsapda is simple: light sources attract phototactic organisms, which are then collected in a trap mechanism.

Various types of light sources can be used, including incandescent bulbs, fluorescent lamps, mercury vapor lamps, and ultraviolet (UV) lights. UV light is particularly effective for attracting many insect species. The trap itself can vary in design. Some are as basic as a sheet or screen illuminated from behind, where insects land and can be collected. More sophisticated traps might incorporate a funnel system that directs attracted insects into a container, or a fan that blows them into a collecting jar.

Fénycsapdák are deployed at night, often in specific habitats to survey the local fauna. They are valuable for monitoring biodiversity, tracking the spread of invasive species, and understanding the impact of environmental changes on insect populations. Different designs and light sources are chosen based on the target species and the research objectives. Their use is a non-invasive method for collecting specimens for study, providing valuable data without harming the broader ecosystem.