Did you know engineers are problem solvers? Engineers help create the tools we use to solve everyday and not-so-everyday problems. For example, how would you collect bug samples to determine the biodiversity within an ecosystem? This might not sound like an everyday problem to you, unless you are a scientist! For scientists, studying the diversity and population density of species within an ecosystem is a necessary step toward  understanding how that ecosystem functions. To solve this collection problem, scientists and engineers worked together to create the Berlese Funnel.

In today’s episode we will explore the role of the engineer in the scientific process, the basics of the Berlese Funnel, and a How-To demonstration showing you how to create your own Berlese Funnel out of recycled materials. Try collecting some specimens as a troop or home activity to learn more about the ecosystems in your area!