LIDAR techniques for studying insect migration and distributions

LIDAR techniques have been extensively used for studies of aerosol particles. Fluorescence LIDAR was employed for studying natural bio aerosols, such as pollen, but also possible warfare agents. Insects, being "large aerosol" particles clearly give rise to LIDAR returns. Recently, honey bees were studied by polarization reflectance LIDAR and their superior olfactory abilities were used in attempts to detect landmines. Together with coworkers at the section for Animal Ecology, Lund University, we have initiated a project for using LIDAR, and in particular its fluorescence variety, to study the migration and distribution of two species of damselflies of special interest (Caloptoryx virgo and C. splendens). LIDAR techniques may be an interesting possibility to study the behavior and migration of insects, of relevance to ecology, agriculture and evolution.