Monitoring results from our areas

This season, we used three different monitoring systems on one of our plots in southern Germany to gain a comprehensive and meaningful picture of insect diversity on site. A large number of insects were caught using a Malaise trap from AIM. The DNA was then extracted from the tissue of the samples in the laboratory and compared with various databases. In this way, 1,163 different insect species were identified, four of which are on the German Red List. Nysius graminicola graminicola, an extremely rare bug species, and Ponera coarctata, an endangered ant species, were also identified. The fact that Red List insect species colonize our area shows the high ecological quality of the area. The evaluation of the AED (absolute effective diversity) shows that the area - particularly in comparison with areas of green roofs (URBAN) and agricultural areas (AGRI) - has values that are more comparable with natural forest reserves and forests in Germany (FOREST). This year, we also carried out surveys together with AIM at our partner site with IKEA in Romania. The results there also indicate a diverse and species-rich community. A sensor from the Danish company Evolito recorded the flapping movements of insects flying by on the surface. The movement patterns can be assigned to specific insect groups and allow conclusions to be drawn about insect diversity. The results also show a high level of diversity and insect activity throughout the year. This in turn means that insects can find food and shelter all year round and that the area is therefore diverse. In August 2025, the "Insector" from Bee friendly was in use on our site. The smart insect monitoring system automatically recorded, photographed and analyzed insects from 24.07. to 18.08.2025. A total of 898 insects were documented and 38 species identified. The combination of results shows that our area has a very diverse and healthy ecosystem. The use of native seeds and various structures has created an optimal habitat for insects. The reports from AIM and Bee friendly are already available on our website, the report from Evolito will follow at the beginning of December. Report from AIM https://app.box.com/s/uoucksmy1kfif69t9xw5lhtkxpk9hsjx Report from Bee friendly https://app.box.com/s/3qpd0wndk3o0em670rqk4olpkazfq3au