FREE

Adults and Children, Ages 8 and up | Citizen Science

Help us catch ants, beetles, and mosquitos to help researchers unlock the secrets of their DNA.

Join other citizen scientists to collect Long Island insects for DNA sequencing!

In this event, participants will familiarize themselves with the biodiversity of Jones Beach, with a focus on local ant, beetle, and mosquito groups.

We will be catching insects with bug nets, and then attempting to identify them and label them for a database.

Attendees will be introduced to how DNA barcoding can be used to identify species, and will obtain, document, and preserve specimens for DNA isolation at future events. Collection and identification of these insects helps improve their range maps and can show how species are responding to environmental pressures such as global climate change.

Our Event Coordinator:

Olivia Trinkus - Jones Beach Energy & Nature Center Intern

Olivia Trinkus is a current high school senior interning at Jones Beach Energy and Nature Center. She plans to study molecular biology in college and is thinking of pursuing a career in research. She has always had a love for all living things but found her enthusiasm for biology through her AP Biology class in school. She wants to continue expanding her knowledge of science, from molecules to ecosystems, through everything she does. She hopes this experience in DNA barcoding through the Center will be another step towards her goal.