An efficient low-cost method for sampling floral visitors on down-facing flowers

A novel, low-cost method for sampling floral visitors in down-facing flowers has been successfully developed and tested. The Entomological Rod method, utilizing a light stem with a 50 ml Falcon tube attached, enables direct capture of insects without the need for pruning or sudden movements. This approach was applied to Clusia grandiflora (Clusiaceae) in Lençóis Maranhenses National Park, Brazil, demonstrating its efficiency and ease of use in accessing difficult-to-reach flowers. The method offers a practical solution for studying pollinator interactions with pendent flowers, which are known for their protective mechanisms against resource loss.

De Andrade, H. C., Santos David-Silva, M. E., Barros Muniz, D., & Marinho, L. C. (2025). Um método eficiente e de baixo custo para amostragem devisitantes florais em flores voltadas para baixo. Boletim Do Museu Paraense Emílio Goeldi - Ciências Naturais, 20(3), 1–10. https://doi.org/10.46357/bcnaturais.v20i3.1077