2. Key techniques for studying soil life

2.1 Capture and observation

There are many different approaches to studying macro/mesofauna. Due to the great diversity in shape, size, lifestyle and habitat of these organisms, there is no single method for sampling and characterizing all soil biodiversity. For information, a large number of these methods have been listed in the catalog drawn up as part of the CAMPanule project piloted by the MNHN (Muséum national d'histoire naturelle): http://campanule.mnhn.fr/acces_base/ .

For larger organisms (macrofauna), a classic approach is to capture and collect, then identify individuals in the field or laboratory. The use of "Barber pot" traps, for example, is a common...