IR-735 Insect Collector with Counter. The device is an automatic insect aspirator, build to carefully collect and transfer a defined number of flying insects from one rearing cage to another, often smaller cage. This insect aspirator uses a portable vacuum device to suck flying insects in with a nozzle head, counting them before entering the target insect cage. In a way, it is a modern version of a "pooter", particularly suited to mass rearing and insect research facilities where the transfer of (defined numbers of) insects between cages is routine.
The inner chamber size (35 cm x 35 cm x 35 cm) of the VSI IR-735 Insect Aspirator is suitable for standard rearing cages ('target cages') up to 33 cm side length. Insects are captured in the source cage (or in vivo) via a variable length vacuum tube ("pick-up straw"); the associated fan to generate the suction force is screened and positioned under the target cage. Insect collection is started/stopped via a foot switch for easy, hands-free operation, or the fan can be set to continuous operation. As insects enter the target cage, they are counted by a photoelectric sensor and the number collected is displayed. The unit requires 220V. Please see the IR-735 specifications (pdf) below or contact us for details.
The unit can be customized to fit larger or smaller insect cages. Consider adding a refrigeration capability to the insect aspirator if immobilization of collected insects by cooling is required for subsequent transfer (e.g. to release cages).
The acrylic housing of the Insect Aspirator is made from PMMA, which can optionally have a 70% post-consumer recycled content. Contact us if a more sustainably produced acrylic would meet your insect research needs.
Flying insects can be collected using a variety of methods, largely depending on the collection site, species and scope. Some common techniques are:
The choice of collection method will depend on the specific objectives of the study, the habitat and insect species of interest and the resources available. It is important to choose a method that is appropriate for the target insects and minimises damage to the collected specimens.