Pitfall trap

Definition

A trapping method used to capture ground-dwelling arthropods by digging a hole in the ground and placing a container inside, into which the organisms fall and cannot escape.

Etymology

The term derives from 'pit,' referring to a hole in the ground, and 'fall,' indicating the method of capture, combined with 'trap,' a device for capturing and holding animals.

Example

Researchers used a series of pitfall traps to study the diversity of beetles in the forest undergrowth.

Synonyms

• Ground trap
• Capture trap

Related Terms

• Trapping
• Arthropods
• Sampling

Usage Notes

Pitfall traps are commonly used in ecological studies to monitor species diversity and population dynamics. They can be baited or unbaited depending on the target species.