Re: [ECOLOG-L] Non-parametric statistics
Hi Alan et al., Generalized Linear Mixed Models (not to be confused with General Linear Mixed Models) are designed for exactly this sort of data. The Generalized form lets you define the distribution to be whatever you want it to be. With a count variable like this, you should start out with either a negbin or poisson distribution and a log link, and use AIC (or AICc, depending on your sample size) to choose the best-fitting model. However, in recent analyses I ran using count data as dependent variables, I actually found a log distribution with either a log or identity (=normal) link to have the best fit. FYI, if you're using a log link and/or distribution and have any '0' values, you will need to add 1 to each value prior to running the models to avoid the log(0) problem. SPSS has the capability to run Generalized Linear Mixed Models, as do both SAS (Proc GLIMMIX) and R. Best, Nicole Michel * Nicole Michel PhD Candidate 4060 Stern Dept. of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology 400 Boggs Tulane University New Orleans, LA 70118 Fax: 504-862-8706 * From: Ecological Society of America: grants, jobs, news [ECOLOG-L@LISTSERV.UMD.EDU] on behalf of Alan Griffith (agriffit) [agrif...@umw.edu] Sent: Thursday, July 14, 2011 9:39 AM To: ECOLOG-L@LISTSERV.UMD.EDU Subject: [ECOLOG-L] Non-parametric statistics Hello all, I have been searching for some advice on appropriate non-parametric statistics for the analysis of a dependent variable that fails normality and homogeneity assumptions under both sqrt and ln transformations. First I will describe the dataset. The data are from a field sample. I have 4 years of data from the same set of ecological populations. The number of populations varies year to year. The number of individuals sampled in a population may have varied within and among years. Here is a description of the model I would like to implement. Let’s say the Dependent Variable is # seeds eaten / plant. So, I want to implement individual plant nested within population (i.e. a mixed model with population identifier as random variable or SUBJECT(PopID)). YEAR is a categorical independent variable, Population Size is one continuous independent variable. Total # Seeds produced / plant is another continuous independent variable. I would also like to test interactions. As I said before, I was not successful in transforming my dependent variable using my standard choices (ln and sqrt). I had found references to using rank transformed data in an ANOVA / ANCOVA model, but this was rejected by a reviewer. I am familiar with simple nonparametric tests like Kruskal-Wallis, but I do not see how to preserve the complex model with such tests. My first hope is to find a method, generally accepted by ecologists, that is easily implemented in SPSS. If this is not possible, I can explore more complicated analyses with the help of my campus math / stats consultant. Thanks for you advice. | / \ | Alan B. Griffith, PhD \ \ ̗ ̖ / / Associate Professor \ \( )/ /Department of Biological Sciences \ ( ) / University of Mary Washington /( )\ (540) 654-1422 / / ( ) \ \ agrif...@umw.edu / | ¦¦ | \ | |
Re: [ECOLOG-L] data loggers in tropical forests
Carrie, I've used the LogTag recorders in the understory of lowland Caribbean tropical forest - La Selva Biological Station and other sites in Costa Rica and Nicaragua. I've been very happy with them. I initially tested their accuracy by running two data loggers next to each other for a period of 4 days. The temperature and relative humidity estimates were nearly identical, with mean differences of 1%RH or 0.5 degrees C. Most recorders lasted approximately 3-4 months of regular use, with a minimum of ~2 months and a maximum of 6-7. Cheers, Nicole Michel * Nicole Michel PhD Candidate 4060 Stern Dept. of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology 400 Boggs Tulane University New Orleans, LA 70118 Cell: 504-261-2942 Fax: 504-862-8706 http://studentweb.tulane.edu/~nmichel * -Original Message- From: Ecological Society of America: grants, jobs, news on behalf of Carrie Woods Sent: Wed 4/7/2010 4:08 PM To: ECOLOG-L@LISTSERV.UMD.EDU Subject: [ECOLOG-L] data loggers in tropical forests I'm looking to set up temperature/relative humidity data loggers in tropical rain forests and was wondering if anyone knew of the best data loggers to use out of Hobos (http://www.onsetcomp.com/), LogTags (http://www.microdaq.com/logtag/haxo-8.php) and iButtons (http://www.talk1wire.com/DS1923-F5--Hygrochron-Temperature-Humidity-iButton_p_101.html). I know Hobos have been used in field studies in the tropics but they are much more expensive than LogTags and iButtons. The benefit of Hobos is that the battery can be changed whereas with LogTags and iButtons, once the battery dies, they're useless. Has anyone tried these data loggers in a tropical setting that can recommend the best option? thanks, Carrie
[ECOLOG-L] Field assistant needed May-August for project on insectivorous bird declines in Panama
Greetings ECOLOGers and NEOORNers (with apologies for cross-posting), I'm looking for a volunteer field assistant to work with me starting in May (as early as possible) and continuing through mid-August. The project will be based in central Panama, with field sites including Barro Colorado Island, Gigante Peninsula, and 1-2 sites on the mainland near Gamboa. My research focuses on mechanisms of declines of understory insectivorous birds in fragmented Neotropical rainforest. While working in Costa Rica and Nicaragua, I found evidence for an indirect-effects mechanism wherein increases in herbivorous mammal populations (=peccaries) have impacted rainforest understory vegetation structure and, in turn, microhabitat used by understory insectivorous birds, resulting in near-extirpation at La Selva Biological Station, amongst other sites. I will be testing this and another, related hypothesis while in Panama, where the focal bird species have increased concurrent to the La Selva declines. The day-to-day work will involve locating focal species of understory insectivorous birds, conducting vegetation structure (aka microhabitat) assessments, conducting arthropod surveys, and conducting terrestrial mammal trailside surveys. Be advised that while the project focuses upon birds, most day-to-day work will be with plants and insects, although there's always time for birdwatching. Fieldwork will be conducted 5-6 days/week, with occasional long weekends, allowing some time for local travel, if desired. Housing (room and board) will be provided at the field sites, and will include a shared dormitory room on Barro Colorado Island, and a private or shared room in an apartment or hostel in Gamboa. We may also camp a few nights/week while working on Gigante Peninsula. Travel expenses between North America and Panama, including RT airfare to the US or Canada and transportation to BCI from Panama City, will be provided. I'm sorry, but I do not have funding available for a stipend. Preference will be given for applicants with a Bachelor's degree (or equivalent) in Biology or a related field, experience with tropical (preferably) or temperate field research, and/or some knowledge of Spanish (not necessary as most researchers onsite speak English; however another member of my crew is Spanish-speaking). I am leaving for Panama on 25 April and ideally would like to hire someone before I leave. Applications will be reviewed and applicants contacted as they come in; the position is open until an applicant is hired. To apply for the position, please send a CV, cover letter, and names and contact information (e-mail addresses and/or phone) for 2-3 references. Please contact Nicole Michel at nmic...@tulane.edu for more information and/or to submit an application. For more information about my research, see my webpage listed in my signature below. Gracias! Nicole * Nicole Michel PhD Candidate Dept. of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology 400 Boggs Tulane University New Orleans, LA 70118 Cell: 504-261-2942 Fax: 504-862-8706 http://studentweb.tulane.edu/~nmichel https://ent.tulane.edu/exchweb/bin/redir.asp?URL=http://studentweb.tula ne.edu/%7Enmichel *
[ECOLOG-L] Field assistant needed in Costa Rica, June-August
Hola ECOLOG'ers, Apologies for cross-posting, and please circulate to other individuals or lists as appropriate. Gracias! VOLUNTEER FIELD ASSISTANT: PhD Student in need of a field assistant for research investigating the mechanisms and consequences of avian insectivore declines in Central America between 1 June - August 2009. I am seeking a highly motivated, reliable, and flexible assistant to work with me at several field sites in northeastern Costa Rica, including La Selva Biological Station and Tirimbina Rainforest Center. I am investigating the potential roles of two alternative mechanisms (food-limitation and microhabitat selection) in the declines of rainforest understory insectivorous birds, including ruddy-tailed flycatcher (Terenotriccus erythrurus), golden-crowned spadebill (Platyrinchus coronatus), and several antwren species, in rainforest reserves. The field work will be varied, including bird foraging observations and arthropod sampling, but the majority of the work will involve habitat structure data collection. Field work is intensive, involving fairly long days, long hikes and/or bicycle rides on often hilly and slippery terrain with backpacks full of water and field gear. Applicants should have significant progress towards a BS/BA (or higher degree) in Biology, Ecology, or a related field. Previous experience with birds, arthropods, vegetation surveys, or other field work especially tropical fieldwork - is preferable but not necessary. A strong interest in fieldwork and the flexibility, durability, and tolerance to deal with occasionally difficult conditions (heat, humidity, biting and stinging insects, snakes, steep terrain) is essential. Knowledge of Spanish is helpful but not necessary, as we will mostly be at field stations with other English-speaking researchers; though a willingness to learn will greatly improve your experience. The assistant must be detail-oriented and meticulous in data collection; experience with collecting systematic data in a scientific context is preferred. In general, applicants should be in good physical and mental condition, and able to maintain a positive and humorous attitude towards challenging and tiring work. In exchange for this, applicants will obtain a variety of valuable research skills, and will work in gorgeous locations with excellent birding opportunities. Room and board and all travel within Central America will be covered, but no stipend will be provided. I will cover at least half of the travel expenses to Costa Rica, with the remainder possible, depending on funding. Please send a resume, letter of interest (describing background, experience, available dates, and future goals), and the names and email addresses of 2-3 references by email attachment to Nicole Michel at nmic...@tulane.edu. Please feel free to contact me for further information; see also my website at http://studentweb.tulane.edu/~nmichel for more information. Applications will be reviewed and applicants contacted as they are received. * Nicole Michel Dept. of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology 400 Boggs Tulane University New Orleans, LA 70118 US Fax: 504-862-8706 US Cell: 360-606-5631 La Selva Biological Station, Costa Rica, January - August Costa Rica Fax: 506-2766-6535 Costa Rica Phone: 506-2766-6565 x178 http://studentweb.tulane.edu/~nmichel *
[ECOLOG-L] Urgent - field assistant needed ASAP in Costa Rica
Hola ECOLOG'ers, (apologies for cross-posting) I'm running an exclosure experiment to look at the relative roles of birds and bats in limiting arthropods, and in turn herbivory, in the forest understory at La Selva Biological Station in northeastern Costa Rica. The reasoning behind this is that understory insectivorous birds have declined greatly at La Selva over the last 30-40 years, so I'm testing to see what consequences the loss of this guild may have for the forest understory community, and at the same time whether insectivorous bats can compensate. I have already run these exclosures once at La Selva and once at a site in Nicaragua (Refugio Bartola) where similar avian declines have not coccurred. The work itself will involve going out at dawn and dusk daily, transferring netting between exclosures, some daytime and nighttime arthropod surveys, and possibly some bat netting. There's little to no bird work involved so birding skill is not a prerequisite. Insect ID skill (to order/family) would be great, but not necessary. Instead, the most important characteristics I'm looking relate to typical field skills: reliability, independence, ability and comfort to work in the rainforest (with inclement weather, biting insects, occasional venomous snakes) at dawn and dusk. I will cover housing and food (in an off-station house), station fees, local transport, and could cover at least half of the airline ticket, possibly more depending on funding. The position would start ASAP and last until early May. Please contact me at nmic...@tulane.edu for further information. Cheers, Nicole Michel * Nicole Michel Dept. of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology 400 Boggs Tulane University New Orleans, LA 70118 US Fax: 504-862-8706 US Cell: 360-606-5631 La Selva Biological Station, Costa Rica, January - August Costa Rica Fax: 506-2766-6535 Costa Rica Phone: 506-2766-6565 x178 http://studentweb.tulane.edu/~nmichel *
Re: [ECOLOG-L] Catching soil invertebrates
Dave et al., I've been using both pitfall trap and Berlese sampling methods to survey leaf litter arthropods in Costa Rica for the last year. For the pitfall traps I'm using small, ~150ml cups in which I put ~30ml of 75% ethanol alcohol with a few drops of liquid soap, to break the surface tension. I place the trap at least 4-7 days prior to the first use (to minimize disturbance, e.g., to ant colonies) and check them after 4 days of sampling. The alcohol does attract bark beetles (Coleoptera:Curculionidae:Scolytinae), but I've never caught any small mammals, though I did once catch a small anole. Pitfall traps are good for capturing larger and more active organisms in the leaf litter, but it will capture very few sessile organisms (including many insect larvae) or organisms living within the soil itself, as the cup is placed with the top aligned with the soil surface. Berlese sampling involves collecting leaf litter and/or soil - typically either a predefined volume or area - then placing it into a Tullgren/Berlese funnel (see, e.g., http://www.emanco.ca/eman/ecotools/protocols/terrestrial/arthropods/soil-litt.html). The litter is placed into a funnel with an inset piece of mesh, and suspended over a jar of 75-95% ethanol, with a light source just above the litter. As the litter dries, the arthropods move away from the heat and fall into the ethanol. This method also captures fairly active organisms, but will capture more sessile organisms than the pitfall traps. To fully sample leaf litter and/or soil, and capture the sessile organisms, I'd recommend using the Winkler method (see, e.g., http://viceroy.eeb.uconn.edu/ALAS/winkler00.html), where litter is chopped up and sifted then suspended in a bag over a container of ethanol with a light source at the top of the bag. Here are a few good survey papers and a brief from the Biological Survey of Canada which discuss the merits of various methods: Cooper, R.J., and R.C. Whitmore. 1990. Arthropod sampling methods in ornithology. Studies in Avian Biology 13:29-37. Delabie, J.H., B.L. Fisher, J. Majer, J., and I.W. Wright. 2000. Sampling effort and choice of methods, pp. 145-154. In: Agosti, D., J.D. Majer, L. Alonso, and T. Schultz [eds.], Measuring and monitoring biodiversity: standard methods for ground-dwelling ants. Smithsonian Institution Press, Washington D.C. Edwards, C.A. 1991. The assessment of populations of soil-inhabiting invertebrates. Agriculture, Ecosystems and Environment 34:145-176. Parr, C.L., and S.L. Chown. 2001. Inventory and bioindicator sampling: testing pitfall and Winkler methods with ants in a South African savanna. Journal of Insect Conservation 5:27-36. TERRESTRIAL ARTHROPOD BIODIVERSITY: PLANNING A STUDY AND RECOMMENDED SAMPLING TECHNIQUES A Brief Prepared by the Biological Survey of Canada (Terrestrial Arthropods) 1994\ http://www.biology.ualberta.ca/bsc/briefs/brterrestrial.htm Cheers, Nicole Michel ** Nicole Michel Dept. of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology 400 Boggs Hall Tulane University New Orleans, LA 70118 Fax: 504-862-8706 Phone: 360-606-5631 ** ** Nicole Michel Dept. of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology 400 Boggs Hall Tulane University New Orleans, LA 70118 Fax: 504-862-8706 Phone: 360-606-5631 ** -Original Message- From: Ecological Society of America: grants, jobs, news on behalf of Jordan M. Marshall Sent: Mon 5/26/2008 8:13 AM To: ECOLOG-L@LISTSERV.UMD.EDU Subject: Re: [ECOLOG-L] Catching soil invertebrates Dave In my experiences with pitfall traps, I don't recall capturing many earthworms. I have captured occasional snails, slugs, and some larvae, more likely to capture insect nymphs. If you do use pitfall traps, I have always used propylene glycol as the killing agent/preservative, 2-4 cm deep, since it isn't too attractive to insects or mammals. This is the main ingredient in low toxicity antifreeze and most boat/RV antifreeze. The labels are pretty clear regarding the ingredients. I wouldn't use ethylene glycol, main ingredient in most other antifreeze. This is attractive to insects and mammals. Since pitfall traps are usually passive, an attractant isn't usually wanted. Even using propylene glycol, you will capture some mammals in pitfall traps; shrews and voles are the most common in my experience. Checking traps every week or 2 weeks is acceptable, I have done both for different studies. For sampling earthworms, I would think soil cores (10-15 x 25 cm?) or small soil pits (25 x 25 x 25 cm?) would be the most effective technique. Sieve the soil and remove the earthworms. Jordan -- Jordan M. Marshall, Ph.D. School of Forest Resources and Environmental Science Michigan Technological University Cooperative Emerald Ash Borer Project 5936
Volunteer Field Assistants needed in Costa Rica Nicaragua
VOLUNTEER FIELD ASSISTANTS: PhD Student in need of 1-2 field assistant(s) for research investigating the mechanisms and consequences of avian insectivore declines in Central America between April-October 2008. I am seeking highly motivated, reliable, and flexible assistant(s) to work with me at Refugio Bartola (Nicaragua), Tirimbina Rainforest Reserve (Costa Rica) and La Selva Biological Station (Costa Rica). I am investigating the potential roles of several alternative mechanisms (in 2008 I will be focusing on food-limitation and microhabitat selection) in the declines of rainforest understory insectivorous birds, including ruddy-tailed flycatcher (Terenotriccus erythrurus), golden-crowned spadebill (Platyrinchus coronatus), and several antwren species, in rainforest reserves. I am also investigating the community-wide consequences of the loss of avian insectivores for herbivorous arthropods and plants. =20 =20 The field work will be varied, including foraging observations, some mist-netting, nest-searching and observation, and arthropod sampling, but the majority of the work will involve habitat structure data collection and daily monitoring of bird and bat exclosures. Assistants will be responsible for helping with all aspects of the study, including bird location and observation, arthropod sampling (using pitfall traps, flight intercept traps, visual observations, and sweep-netting), canopy height estimation (using a rangefinder), taking hemispherical photographs, establishing, checking and maintaining exclosures, and general data collection and recording. Field work is intensive, involving fairly long days, long hikes and/or bicycle rides on often hilly and slippery terrain with backpacks full of water and field gear. =20 Applicants should have significant progress towards a BS/BA (or higher degree) in Biology, Ecology, or a related field. Previous experience with birds, arthropods, vegetation surveys, or other field work is preferable but not necessary, but a strong interest in fieldwork and the flexibility, durability, and tolerance to deal with occasionally difficult conditions (heat, humidity, biting and stinging insects, snakes, steep terrain) is essential. Knowledge of English is essential and Spanish is helpful but not necessary, as we will mostly be at field stations with other English-speaking researchers; though a willingness to learn will greatly improve your experience. The assistant must be detail-oriented and meticulous in data collection; experience with collecting systematic data in a scientific context is preferred. In general, applicants should be in good physical and mental condition, and able to maintain a positive and humorous attitude towards challenging and tiring work. In exchange for this, applicants will obtain a variety of valuable research skills, and will work in gorgeous locations with excellent birding opportunities. =20 =20 At this point, I can only commit to covering half of the station fees plus all transportation between field sites. I have applied for grants, and if I receive sufficient funds I may be able to cover more, but I will not know until March, at the earliest. Thus assistants are responsible for transportation to San Jose, Costa Rica, and half of station fees ($5-$15/night, depending on location; includes on-site lodging, food, and access to all facilities - laundry, high-speed internet access at all sites except Bartola). Assistants must obtain necessary vaccinations to work at these sites: typhoid, tetanus, and hepatitis A are required, anti-malarials are optional). Visas are not required for US citizens; citizens of other countries are responsible for obtaining any necessary visas. =20 =20 Ideally, I would like one assistant for the Costa Rica portion of the study (April 1 - early July) and another for the Nicaragua portion (mid-July - early October). However, I will accept applicants who can commit to at least 2 months. Exceptional applicants may be considered for shorter periods.=20 =20 Please send a resume, letter of interest (describing background, experience, available dates, and future goals), and the names and email addresses of 3 references to: Nicole Michel by email attachment to [EMAIL PROTECTED] (preferred) or via snail mail to Dept. of Ecology Evolutionary Biology, 400 Boggs, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA 70118. Please feel free to contact me at the above email address for further information. Applications will be reviewed and applicants contacted as they are received. =20 =20 =20 =20 ** Nicole Michel Dept. of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology 400 Boggs Tulane University New Orleans, LA 70118 Fax: 504-862-8706 Cell: 360-606-5631 ** =20
FW: Importing preserved arthropods
ECOLOG - In response to my earlier query and summary posting regarding importing preserved arthropods, Ellen Paul provided this useful clarification on USDA/APHIS and USFWS requirements, with specific information on how it applies to bird products. I'm passing it along at her request. Hope this helps! Cheers, Nicole Michel -Original Message- From: Ellen Paul [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] Sent: Wednesday, May 02, 2007 11:12 AM To: Michel, Nicole L Subject: Importing preserved arthropods Nicole - Would you mind going back on Ecolog-L and adding this info: APHIS permitting is primarily for importation of live specimens. When you enter the USA the US Customs Declaration will ask about products you are importing and you should check the box that says . wildlife products. Then CBP (US Customs) may divert you to USDA/APHIS/Homeland Security for further questions and inspection. Someone may also ask you for copies of your permits and even the 3-177 Declaration, even though you really do not have to file it then, so get one on line from http://www.fws.gov/le/ImpExp/faqs.htm The Ornithological Council advises that this statement is incorrect with regard to dead birds and dead manmals. See the Ornithological Council import permit guide at http://www.nmnh.si.edu/BIRDNET/PERMITS.html (major revision in progress, to include FedEx, DHL, Customs Broker info and IATA/DOT info). Permits are needed for ALL bird products (APHIS lingo for anything that was once part of a bird) and for ruminants, swine, and equids. Permit conditions will vary depending on the disease status of the country from which the exports occur and the biosafety status of your lab. Treatment of materials, if required, must be with a USDA-approved treatment method (the bird treatment methods are listed in the manual; note that FTA cards have recently been approved). If you need/want info on treatment standards for mammals, contact Ellen Paul at [EMAIL PROTECTED] Note that while technically the USDA does not currently regulate any small mammal diseases (where small mammal is defined as not swine, not ruminant, not equid), they do require permits and they will put birds and small mammals on a single permit. In fact, the entire permit system is outside the regulatory system, but try telling that to a Customs and Border Protection inspector at the port: sorry, I don't need a permit because there is no regulation saying that I need a permit. Note that CBP *is* part of Department of Homeland Security, and APHIS is part of USDA. After 9/11, the APHIS agricultural inspectors were transferred to CBP. So it is actually CBP Animal Quarantine Inspection people you deal with at the ports. Also note that you DO have to file the 3-177 at the time of import if you are importing any regulated wildlife (e.g., stuff covered under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act, CITES, ESA...). That 180-day rule applies to nonprotected species.and technically applies only to dead, preserved, dried, or embedded scientific specimens or parts thereof, imported by accredited scientists or accredited scientific institutions for taxonomic or systematic research purposes. We've had discussions with the USFWS about this limitation on the kind of research that qualifies for this exemption, and I hope that the next time they revise the regs, they will broaden this scope, but for now, this is the rule... ** Nicole Michel Dept. of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology 310 Dinwiddie Hall Tulane University New Orleans, LA 70118 **
Summary: Importing preserved arthropods
ECOLOG, =20 Last week I posted a question regarding necessary USDA/APHIS and USFWS permits for importing preserved arthropods from Costa Rica. I received many prompt and helpful replies - thanks to all of you! Here is a compiled summary of what I found out. The bottom line:=20 1) You do NOT need an APHIS permit for dead, preserved specimens (with a few exceptions, e.g., Apoideae, see below) =20 2) You DO need to fill out a USFWS Form 3-177 within 180 days of arrival within the States, and it's not a bad idea to have a printed copy on hand when you go through customs =20 3) 70% ethanol is not allowed on planes, but you can use alternate preservation methods (diluting ethanol to 20% w/ water for the duration of the trip, freezing and transporting in plastic containers w/ mothballs) or ship by express carrier (but see their dangerous goods exceptions). 4) You may need to sterilize soil arthropods for soil microbes (perhaps this was an exception for this one case? See below) 5) You also need export permits from the countries you're working in (FYI: OTS is very helpful in obtaining export permits for work in Costa Rica). =20 I've highlighted important points in bold. I hope this is helpful. =20 Cheers, Nicole Michel =20 =20 =20 First of all for Costa Rica you need to have official Collecting and Export permits (separate permits) from their government in order to bring the specimens legally into the USA. Within 180 days you must file a 3-177 Declaration with the U.S. Fish Wildlife Service at your port of entry. =20 According to International Air Transport Association (IATA) regulations you cannot bring 70% ethanol on board airplanes. The best thing to do is to drain off the ethanol just before returning and use some other non-hazardous/non-dangerous fluid like propylene glycol (OK for DNA work), glycerin, etc. The other option is to have them shipped in ethanol by a trained/qualified person at an institution using proper packaging, sealing the separate containers (not over 30ml each), and not over 0.5 liters per package, properly labeled with a red/white Dangerous Goods label, etc., i.e., also following IATA regulations. =20 APHIS permitting is primarily for importation of live specimens. When you enter the USA the US Customs Declaration will ask about products you are importing and you should check the box that says . wildlife products. Then CBP (US Customs) may divert you to USDA/APHIS/Homeland Security for further questions and inspection. Someone may also ask you for copies of your permits and even the 3-177 Declaration, even though you really do not have to file it then, so get one on line from http://www.fws.gov/le/ImpExp/faqs.htm=20 =20 I hope this answers your questions. Feel free to send this to the ESA listserve, if you think it will be helpful. =20 =20 =20 USFWS requires that you fill out Form 3-177. They're just making sure that you aren't bringing in endangered species. I BELIEVE that it can be done after the fact (within 180 days or so from the time that you get back) but you'll need to check their most recent instructions. Here's a link to the form and instructions: http://www.fws.gov/le/ImpExp/faqs.htm=20 If the specimens dead and preserved no APHIS permit is required. =20 As far as dead bees go (anything in the Apoidea), we do have notification and declaration requirements. Here's the link to the Bee regulations: http://ecfr.gpoaccess.gov/cgi/t/text/text-idx?c=3Decfrsid=3D149724f9e959= 5c2 e6d8827f049a03004rgn=3Ddiv5view=3Dtextnode=3D7:5.1.1.1.7idno=3D7=20 The relevant section starts at 7 CFR 322.29. In a nutshell, it says that, for preserved bees, we need to be notified and that you have to let the border inspectors look things over. =20 =20 -- =20 In our class we have brought back a few liter bottles of preserved arthropods and have had no trouble at all especially if they were preserved. They didn't even flinch at least so far. We have bought back frozen insects that were in Tupperware containers with mothballs. In 6 years we have never had a hard time since they are in ethanol. We were even able to bring back pressed leaf samples and had no US permits but had to have both collecting and export permits from Costa Rica. The ethanol question will have to be directed at the airlines. Last year we preserved them in ethanol and then emptied the ethanol and added 40% ethanol or so that was not flammable to keep them moist and then added 75% back when we arrived home and they were fine. The other option would be to ship them from San Jose to the US but the mail there is VERY SLOW in my experience. =20 One note is to have all the material in one box, with a manifest or packing slip with a description of all of the materials in it. We take classes of 6 - 24 students and have about 14 large shipping boxes and with the manifest we have had minimal problems. =20
Importing preserved arthropods
Hi ECOLOG'ers and NEOORN'ers, =20 Apologies for cross-posting! =20 I have a question regarding USDA-APHIS import permit requirements. I will be collecting leaf-litter arthropods (spiders, beetles, ants, millipedes, etc.) in Costa Rica and need to bring preserved (in 70% ethanol) specimens back to the States. I've checked the USDA's website and have contacted numerous people in numerous offices and still haven't yet been able to determine whether or not arthropods count as an animal under their definitions. =20 =20 Does anyone out there have experience with bringing preserved arthropods back from Central America? I also have heard that there are strict restrictions on the amounts of ethanol in checked bags, but haven't yet been able to find out what those restrictions are. =20 Thanks for your assistance! =20 Cheers, Nicole Michel =20 =20 =20 ** Nicole Michel Dept. of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology 310 Dinwiddie Hall Tulane University New Orleans, LA 70118 ** =20
