Microfauna Trap

This trap is used to filter microfauna, for example, nematodes and tardigrades (water bears). Nematodes are microscopic organisms that can be found across the planet. The first foot of topsoil can contain up to 3 billion nematodes.

Instructions:
- Assemble trap as pictured
- Fill trap with tap water or distilled water. Use distilled water if tap water contains high concentrations of chlorine. Do not add salt, unless the sample is from a marine environment (photo 1).
- Add a small, damp soil sample to the trap in filter paper or tissue (photo 2).
- Fold paper (photo 3).
- Place trap under a light.
- Wait 24 hours.
- Sample water by removing the threaded cap.