Bug Attraction Dataset

Experiment Design:

The study involved setting up six light traps, each fitted with a distinct type of light bulb. Researchers placed these traps at three different locations: one urban (UCLA Botanical Garden) and two rural (La Kretz Field Station and Stunt Ranch). For additional precision, varying environmental factors such as moon visibility, temperature, and humidity were recorded. The experiment was repeated 32 times across different nights, ensuring data was balance with rotation of traps and light bulbs.

Variables:

• Light Bulbs: Different bulbs were use, including Philips adjustable bulbs (set to various color temperatures), commercial LEDs, and compact fluorescent bulbs (CFLs).
• Environmental Factors: Data like moon phase, mean temperature, and wind speed were capture to control for external influences on insect behavior.
• Insect Types: The number of capture insects from various orders (e.g., Diptera, Hymenoptera, Coleoptera) was recorded per trap.

Dataset Structure:

Each record represents one trap’s insect count for a given night, capturing details like light bulb type, environmental conditions, and the species capture. This data can be use to analyze the relationship between light sources and insect activity.

Key Insights:

• Urban vs Rural Effects: The dataset can reveal differences in insect behavior across urban and rural environments.
• Light Bulb Impact: Analysis could explore which light bulb type attracts more insects and whether certain bulbs have more ecological impact.

Conclusion:

This data enables insights into how modern lighting technologies like LEDs could affect insect populations, aiding efforts to balance human needs with ecological conservation.