GB2558883A

GB2558883A - Enclosure

Info

Publication number: GB2558883A
Application number: GB1700539.8A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Heard Matthew; Hesketh Helen
Original assignee: Natural Environmental Research Council
Current assignee: Natural Environmental Research Council
Priority date: 2017-01-12
Filing date: 2017-01-12
Publication date: 2018-07-25
Also published as: GB201700539D0

Abstract

An enclosure for holding one or more live insects, e.g. bees, moths or butterflies, comprises a holding chamber 2 and an inlet to the holding chamber, wherein the inlet is provided with an access control means which allows a user to control access to the holding chamber and prevents insect(s) from escaping. The access control means includes a first aperture (29, figure 2) in the base (28, figure 2) of the holding chamber. A receptacle (24, figure 2) includes second aperture (31, figure 2), and is movable relative to the base of the holding chamber. In a first open position, the apertures are in alignment, and in a second closed position, the first and second apertures are out of alignment and no part of the apertures overlap. In a preferred embodiment, the access control means is biased towards a closed position. The enclosure may include one or more vents and may be made from a transparent or plastics material. A feeder 7 may be arranged such that in use, insects may be fed from inside the holding chamber. A feeder for an insect is also disclosed.

Description

(54) Title of the Invention: Enclosure

Abstract Title: Insect enclosure and feeder (57) An enclosure for holding one or more live insects, e.g. bees, moths or butterflies, comprises a holding chamber 2 and an inlet to the holding chamber, wherein the inlet is provided with an access control means which allows a user to control access to the holding chamber and prevents insect(s) from escaping. The access control means includes a first aperture (29, figure 2) in the base (28, figure 2) of the holding chamber. A receptacle (24, figure 2) includes second aperture (31, figure 2), and is movable relative to the base of the holding chamber. In a first open position, the apertures are in alignment, and in a second closed position, the first and second apertures are out of alignment and no part of the apertures overlap. In a preferred embodiment, the access control means is biased towards a closed position. The enclosure may include one or more vents and may be made from a transparent or plastics material. A feeder 7 may be arranged such that in use, insects may be fed from inside the holding chamber. A feeder for an insect is also disclosed.

Figure 1

At least one drawing originally filed was informal and the print reproduced here is taken from a later filed formal copy.

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Figure 1

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Figure 2

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Figure 4

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Figure 7

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Figure 8

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Figure 10

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Bombus terrestris survival (10d; n=117)

Figure 12

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Osmia cornuta survival (1 Od; n=35)

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Figure 13

ENCLOSURE

The present invention relates to an enclosure for insects such as pollinating insects including bees, and lepidoptera (e.g. moths and butterflies). More particularly, the invention relates to an enclosure that can be used to contain live insects (e.g. bees, moths or butterflies) during laboratory tests, e.g. toxicity tests.

The invention also relates to systems comprising one or more such enclosures. In addition, the invention relates to a feeder adapted for feeding insects such as bees or moths, e.g. during laboratory tests such as toxicity tests. The invention further relates to the use of such enclosures, systems and feeders.

Insects such as bees play a vital role in the environment. Bees help to sustain biodiversity by providing essential pollination for a wide range of crops and wild plants. In addition, bees contribute to human health and wellbeing directly through the production of honey and other food and feed supplies.

In recent years, declines in bee populations have been noted, e.g. in Western European countries including France, Belgium, Switzerland, Germany, the UK, the Netherlands, Italy and Spain.

Declining bee populations may have dire consequences for biodiversity and for agriculture. Accordingly, there is significant research interest, e.g. from organisations such as the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) (see http://www.efsa.europa.eu/en/topics/topic/beehealth). in monitoring and maintaining healthy bee stocks and in understanding the potential reasons for declining bee populations. Such research may help to inform measures, e.g. changes in industry practices, intended to improve the wellbeing of bees and halt or reverse declines in bee populations.

The effects of intensive agriculture and pesticide use are thought to be one contributing factor in the decline of bee populations. For instance, exposure to certain chemicals such as neonicotinoids used in pesticides is thought to disorient honeybees and adversely affect their ability to return to the hive.

Oral toxicity tests can be carried out on insects such as bees or moths in the laboratory to try to better understand the effects of exposure to particular chemicals on the insects. However, the insects, e.g. bees or moths, may find the tests stressful, which might affect the reliability of the results, since the insects may be affected by stress more than by exposure to the chemicals. In laboratory toxicity tests, it is important that the tests are carried out in a manner, which reduces environmental and other stresses and hence promotes survival of the bees or insects for the duration of the test. For instance, bees should be handled carefully to avoid causing them undue stress. In addition, bees may experience less stress if the tests are carried out under lighting conditions that mimic the bees’ natural environment. There is a desire to carry out toxicity tests of longer duration (e.g. 10 days or more) on bees and other insects such as moths, in order to better simulate real-world conditions. Reducing environmental and other stresses on the insects, e.g. bees or moths, may be important when carrying out toxicity tests on the insects, and may be particularly important when carrying out toxicity tests of longer duration. In general, a toxicity test of shorter duration (e.g. 48 hours) may be termed an acute toxicity test, while a toxicity test of longer duration (e.g. 5 days or more) may be termed a chronic toxicity test.

CN204272919(U) discloses a testing device for bee acute toxicity tests. The device comprises a bee cage and a pesticide supply device, wherein the bee cage and the pesticide supply device are connected, the bee cage is formed by punching and welding stainless steel subjected to laser drilling, and the pesticide supply device is an automatic feeder.

CN203968939(U) discloses a bee acute oral toxicity test device which comprises a bee cage. The top of the bee cage is provided with a bee guide-in opening and two feeding openings.

CN202857542(U) discloses a multifunctional escape prevention cage used for feeding bees.

A first aspect of the invention provides an enclosure for holding one or more live insects, e.g. bees, moths or butterflies, comprising: a holding chamber; and an inlet to the holding chamber; wherein the inlet is provided with an access control means, the access control means having an open condition and a closed condition, wherein, in use, with the access control means in the open condition, a user can load the one or more insects into the holding chamber and with the access control means in the closed position the insect(s) are prevented from escaping from the holding chamber.

Advantageously, the access control means may provide for relatively quick and efficient loading of insects such as bees or moths into the holding chamber. Consequently, handling time may be reduced or even minimised, causing less stress to the insects.

When using the enclosure of the present invention, there may be no need to anaesthetise the insects when loading them into the holding chamber. As a consequence, the cost and complexity of loading the insects into the holding chamber may be reduced. Furthermore, the insects may be less stressed than if they had been anaesthetised.

The provision of an enclosure into which insects such as bees or moths may be loaded in a relatively stress-free manner may lead to an increase in typical insect survival time within the holding chamber. Accordingly, for example, improved toxicity tests (e.g. longer (chronic) toxicity tests) may be conveniently carried out using an enclosure according to the invention.

In general, by limiting the stress experienced by the insect(s), survival rates and times within the enclosure may be increased. This may open up the possibility of carrying out longer tests, e.g. toxicity tests, on the insect(s) within the holding chamber.

Typically, the access control means does not comprise a discrete lid or a stopper.

In an embodiment, the inlet may communicate with a lower portion of the holding chamber. For instance, the inlet may be disposed in a base of the holding chamber.

In an embodiment, the access control means may comprise: a first part having an aperture therethrough, the aperture being in communication with the holding chamber; and a second part having an aperture therethrough, the second part being movable relative to the first part such that, in the open condition, the apertures in the first part and the second part are in registry, and, in the closed condition, the apertures in the first part and the second part do not overlap.

The access control means may be configured such that the second part may be slidably moveable relative to the first part. For instance, the second part may translate relative to the first part.

The access control means may be configured such that the second part may be rotatable relative to the first part.

In an embodiment, the access control means may comprise at least one flap, the flap(s) being configured to cover the inlet in the closed condition and being movable to uncover the inlet in the open condition. The flap(s) may be resiliently deformable.

In an embodiment, the access control means may be biased to the closed condition.

In an embodiment, the holding chamber may comprise one or more side walls, a base and a top.

In an embodiment, the holding chamber may be defined at least in part by a receptacle, which is at least in part circular in cross-section. For example, the receptacle or a portion thereof may be generally frustoconical or cylindrical.

Providing a holding chamber with few sharp corners, e.g. a holding chamber which is circular in cross-section, insects within the holding chamber are provided with fewer locations at which they might otherwise tend to sit or congregate.

The receptacle may have a lid fitted thereto.

In an embodiment, the enclosure may comprise one or more air vents to provide ventilation to the holding chamber.

In an embodiment, at least a portion of the holding chamber may be transparent. For instance, the holding chamber may be substantially entirely transparent.

Providing a holding chamber that is at least partially transparent may confer a number of advantages. First, it allows for monitoring of the behaviour of the insect(s) within the holding chamber. Such monitoring could be carried out by a researcher making direct observations. Alternatively or additionally, such monitoring could be carried out using an imaging means such as a camera arranged to film and/or capture images of insects within the holding chamber. Secondly, by providing a holding chamber that is at least partially transparent, lighting conditions may be controlled to better suit the insect(s) within the holding chamber. By appropriately controlling the lighting conditions, e.g. to mimic conditions experienced by the insects in nature, survival of the insect(s) within the holding chamber may be improved. For instance, honeybees and/or bumblebees may be kept in the dark, to mimic conditions within the hive/colony. Red light could be used to reduce stress when handling the honeybees and/or bumblebees, since they cannot see red light. In contrast, species of solitary bees typically may be kept in daylight (or simulated daylight) during daytime hours and darkness during night-time hours, so that they can follow the diurnal period they are used to following in nature.

In an embodiment, the holding chamber may be made at least partially from a plastic. For instance, the holding chamber may be made at least partially from polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE). Generally, any food grade plastic with surface characteristics that allow insect tarsi to grip may be suitable.

Advantages of manufacturing the enclosure or parts thereof from plastics include ease of manufacture and low cost. A further advantage is that the enclosure or parts thereof may be relatively light.

Certain plastics may be more suitable than others, particularly for parts of the enclosure, with which, in use, insects will come into contact. In general, it is desirable to select a plastic, on which the insects can walk easily and which is substantially free of volatile chemical groups, which may cause insect death. It has been found, for example, that bees can only walk easily on certain plastics, e.g. PTFE. Other plastics, e.g. polyethylene, may be less preferred, since their use appeared to lead to stress that increased bee mortality in control tests.

Typically, the enclosure may be readily washable. Accordingly, a given enclosure may be used on more than one occasion. Alternatively, due to its relatively low cost, the enclosure may be disposable, i.e. intended to be used once and then disposed. As a consequence of the enclosure being disposable, it may be possible to carry out more experiments in a given time period, since no time would be spent cleaning and washing the enclosures.

In an embodiment, the enclosure may further comprise a feeder arranged such that, in use, insects within the holding chamber can access food contained in the feeder. The feeder may comprise a body for containing, in use, food for the insect, and a food access point, where the insect can access the food.

In an embodiment, the feeder may be disposed in the inlet. With the feeder disposed in the inlet, there may be no path for insects to escape from the holding chamber.

In an embodiment, the feeder may comprise: a syringe; a gravity-fed feeder; or a reservoir with a wick extending upwards therefrom.

In an embodiment, the syringe may have no tip or needle.

Advantageously, the insect(s) may feed better, and hence experience less stress, feeding from a syringe having no tip or needle. Consequently, survival of the insect(s) may be improved.

In an embodiment, at least a portion of the feeder may be transparent.

In an embodiment, the feeder may comprise markings indicating the amount of food contained in the feeder.

Conveniently, a user may be able to monitor the amount of food contained within the feeder. This monitoring may be carried out through direct observations and/or by using an imaging means such as a camera. Image data may be conveyed from the imaging means, e.g. camera, to a remote location, e.g. a remote workstation.

In an embodiment, within the holding chamber there may be arranged one or more regions having a rough or textured surface. The region(s) having a rough or textured surface may include at least a portion of the or a feeder.

The provision of a rough or textured surface may be advantageous, since the insects may be able to walk more easily on the rough or textured surface. Accordingly, the insects will experience less stress when being held within the holding chamber. The provision of a rough or textured surface on or near the or a feeder may help to limit stress experienced by the insect(s), by making it less difficult to access food.

In an embodiment, the enclosure may comprise one or more artificial flowers, branches and/or leaves. Typically, the or each artificial flower, branch and/or leaf may be disposed close to, adjacent, or on, the or a feeder. The or each artificial flower, branch and/or leaf may provide a platform on which, in use, insects can stand. The or each artificial flower may be brightly coloured. By being brightly coloured, the artificial flower(s) may attract the insect(s) to the vicinity of the feeder. The provision of an artificial flower, branch and/or leaf may help to attract the insect(s) towards the feeder. By making it easier for the insect(s) to access food, the insect(s)’s stress levels may be reduced.

In an embodiment, one or more pieces of plant material may be located within the holding chamber. By locating the piece(s) of plant material within the holding chamber, the insect(s) may experience a more naturalistic environment, which may be less stressful.

In an embodiment, the enclosure may comprise a stand for supporting the holding chamber.

In an embodiment, the enclosure may comprise one or more connecting ports. Each connecting port may be adapted to be connected to a tube, which may at its other end be connected to a connecting port of another enclosure. Accordingly, enclosures of the invention may be interconnected.

A second aspect of the invention provides an enclosure for holding one or more insects, e.g. bees or moths, comprising: a holding chamber; and one or more regions having a rough or textured surface arranged within the holding chamber.

A third aspect of the invention provides a system comprising an enclosure according to the first aspect of the invention and/or an enclosure according to the second aspect of the invention and an imaging means arranged to monitor behaviour of insects within the enclosure.

The imaging means may comprise a camera. The camera may be operable to record a film and/or to capture a series of discrete images.

The imaging means may be connected to a memory for storing recorded films and/or captured images of the insects within the enclosure.

The imaging means may be connected by a data link to a remote workstation. For example, image data may be conveyed from the imaging means to the remote workstation continuously, periodically or on demand. The image data may be processed, reviewed and/or analysed at the remote workstation. Hence, a user may be able to analyse in detail the behaviour of the insect(s) within the enclosure.

A user may be able to control operation of the imaging means from the remote workstation. Operating instructions may be input to the remote workstation and conveyed to the imaging means via the data link.

The data link may comprise a wire or a cable. The data link may comprise a wireless data link.

In an embodiment, the system may comprise a plurality of enclosures according to the first aspect of the invention. The enclosures may be interconnected. The system may be modular. The system may comprise for example two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine, 10 or more enclosures.

A fourth aspect of the invention provides a system comprising a plurality of enclosures according to the first aspect of the invention and/or enclosures according to the second aspect of the invention. The enclosures may be interconnected. The system may be modular. The system may comprise for example two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine, 10 or more enclosures.

A system according to the invention may comprise one or more sensors, e.g. movement sensors, arranged to sense movement of insects. The sensor(s) may be connected to data loggers. For instance, one or more sensors may be arranged to sense movement of insects from one enclosure to another. In some embodiments, the insect(s) may be tagged to aid identification of given individuals.

A fifth aspect of the invention provides a feeder for one or more insects such as bees, moths or butterflies, the feeder comprising a body for containing, in use, food for the insect, and a food access point, where the insect can access the food, wherein at least a portion of the body has a rough or textured surface.

In an embodiment, the food access point may comprise a hole or a trough.

In an embodiment, the syringe may have no tip or needle.

In an embodiment, the feeder may comprise an artificial flower, branch or leaf close to or adjacent the food access point.

In an embodiment, the food may comprise a sugar solution. The sugar solution may be an aqueous solution. The sugar solution may have a sugar concentration of up to or at least 20% or up to or at least 50% weight by volume. The food may further comprise a predetermined concentration of a toxic or potentially toxic chemical. The toxic or potentially toxic chemical may comprise for example a pesticide.

A sixth aspect of the invention provides a feeder for an insect such as a bee or a moth, the feeder comprising a body for containing, in use, food for the insect; a food access point, where the insect can access the food; and an artificial flower, branch and/or leaf close to or adjacent the food access point.

In an embodiment, the artificial flower may for example surround the food access point.

A seventh aspect of the invention provides a use of an enclosure according to the first aspect of the invention, an enclosure according to the second aspect of the invention, a system according to the third aspect of the invention, a system according to the fourth aspect of the invention, a feeder according to the fifth aspect of the invention or a feeder according to the sixth aspect of the invention in carrying out a test on one or more insects. The test may be carried out in a laboratory. The test may comprise a toxicity test.

The toxicity test may be an acute toxicity test or a chronic toxicity test.

Typically, the toxicity test may last for longer than 96 hours, e.g. for 240 hours or more. The toxicity test may last for up to or more than 24 days.

The test may be carried out on one or more insects. The insects may comprise one or more species of bee, moth or butterfly.

In order that the invention may be well understood, it will now be described by way of example only with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

Figure 1 shows an example embodiment of an enclosure for holding one or more insects according to the invention;

Figure 2 shows an exploded view of the components of another example embodiment of an enclosure for holding one or more insects according to the invention;

Figure 3 shows an example embodiment of a feeder according to the invention, the feeder being adapted for carrying out a toxicity test on one or more insects;

Figure 4 shows another example embodiment of an enclosure for holding one or more insects according to the invention, the enclosure comprising the feeder of Figure 3; Figure 5 shows another example embodiment of a feeder according to the invention, the feeder being adapted for carrying out a toxicity test on one or more insects;

Figure 6 shows another example embodiment of an enclosure for holding one or more insects according to the invention, the enclosure comprising the feeder of Figure 5;

Figure 7 shows another example embodiment of an enclosure for holding one or more insects according to the invention;

Figure 8 shows a modular system comprising three enclosures according to an example embodiment of the invention;

Figure 9 is a schematic top view of the modular system of Figure 8;

Figure 10 is a schematic top view of another modular system comprising three enclosures according to an example embodiment of the invention;

Figure 11 is a graph showing survival over time of bumblebees (Bombus terrestris) within an enclosure according to the invention;

Figure 12 is a graph showing survival over time of honeybees (Apis mellifera) within an enclosure according to the invention; and

Figure 13 is a graph showing survival over time of a solitary mining bee species (Osmia cornutd) within an enclosure according to the invention.

Figure 1 shows an example embodiment of an enclosure 1 according to the invention. The enclosure 1 is adapted for holding one or more insects, e.g. bees or moths, and for carrying out an oral toxicity test on the insect(s) held within the enclosure 1.

The enclosure 1 comprises a holding chamber, which is defined in part by a generally frustoconical principal receptacle 2 having a base 8 and an open end opposite the base 8. The principal receptacle 2 flares outwardly from the base 8 to the open end, thereby completing the holding chamber. A lid 3 is fitted to the principal receptacle 2 to close the open end. An air vent (not shown) is provided in the principal receptacle 2 and/or the lid 3. The base 8 has an aperture therethrough. The aperture is at a noncentral location in the base 8. A collar 6 is attached to the underside of the base 8 and surrounds the aperture. In an embodiment, the collar 6 may comprise a foam ring.

The enclosure 1 further comprises a second generally frustoconical receptacle 4, in which is received the principal receptacle 2. The second receptacle 4 is shorter than the principal receptacle 2. In a base 9 of the second receptacle 4, there is an aperture. In use, with the principal receptacle 2 received in the second receptacle 4, the principal receptacle 2 and the second receptacle 4 can be rotated relative to each other. Consequently, the apertures in the bases 8, 9 of the principal receptacle 2 and the second receptacle 4 may be brought in and out of registry. Thus, there is provided an inlet to the holding chamber having an open condition (i.e. when the apertures are aligned) and a closed condition (i.e. when the apertures do not overlap). When the inlet is in the open condition, a user can load one or more insects into the holding chamber. The inlet can then be quickly and easily closed to prevent the insects from escaping from the holding chamber by rotating the principal receptacle 2 and the second receptacle 4 relative to each other such that the apertures do not overlap.

The enclosure 1 further comprises a stand 5 having a generally frustoconical shape. The stand 5 is wider at its base 10 than at its top. The stand 5 comprises a base 10 and an open end at its top. The principal receptacle 2 and the second receptacle 4 are received in, and supported by, the stand 5. There is a gap between the base 9 of the second receptacle 4 and the base 10 of the stand 5.

Figure 1 shows the apertures in the bases 8, 9 of the principal receptacle 2 and the second receptacle 4 in registry with each other. A feeder 7 in the form of a specially adapted syringe is disposed such that it extends upwardly through the aperture in the base 9 of the second receptacle 4, through the collar 6 and through the aperture in the base 8 of the principal receptacle 2. The feeder 7 has a plunger 11 movable within a main body 13. The main body 13 is transparent at least in part and is provided with markings indicating the volume of food in the feeder 7. The free end of the plunger 11 is located in the gap between the base 10 of the stand 5 and the base 9 of the second receptacle 4. Accordingly, the stand 5 provides a stable base for the enclosure with or without the feeder 7 in place. In use, the feeder 7 contains food, typically a sugar solution, for the insect(s) within the holding chamber. In an oral toxicity test, a given potentially toxic chemical under investigation may be added to the food in a desired concentration. The feeder 7 is adapted for use in oral toxicity tests on insects The main body 13 contains at its distal end a small hole 12, through which the insect(s) access the food. The feeder 7 does not have a tip or a needle. It has been found that the insect(s) struggle to access food from a syringe having a tip or a needle.

The apertures in the bases 8, 9 of the second receptacle 4 and the principal receptacle and the collar 6 fit snugly around the main body 13 of the feeder 7 such that there is no route for insects to escape from the holding chamber. Conveniently, if the food needs replenishing during a test, the feeder 7 can be removed quickly and easily from the enclosure 1. The principal receptacle 2 and the second receptacle 4 can then be rotated relative to each other to close the inlet and prevent insects from escaping.

When the food in the feeder 7 has been replenished (or a new, replacement feeder is ready), a user may open the inlet by rotating the principal receptacle 2 and the second receptacle 4 relative to each other and then reinsert the feeder 7 (or insert the new, replacement feeder). Essentially the same operation may be carried out for a user to load additional insects into, or remove insects from, the enclosure 1.

The lid and/or the principal receptacle and/or the second receptacle and/or the stand may comprise, or consist essentially of, a transparent material.

The lid and/or the principal receptacle and/or the second receptacle and/or the stand may comprise, or consist essentially of, PTFE.

The collar acts to keep the feeder upright. The collar is not essential to the invention. For instance, the same effect could be achieve by increasing, e.g. locally increasing, the thickness of the base of the principal receptacle and/or the base of the second receptacle. The or a collar may for example be integral to the base of the principal receptacle and/or the second receptacle. The collar need not comprise a complete ring.

In some embodiments, the lid may not be detachable.

In some embodiments, the aperture in the base of the principal receptacle may be provided with at least one flap, the flap(s) being configured to cover the aperture in the closed condition and being movable to uncover the inlet in the open condition. The flap(s) may be biased to the closed condition.

In embodiments comprising flap(s) configured to cover and uncover the aperture in the principal receptacle, there may be no need for a second receptacle. Accordingly, such an enclosure beneficially may comprise fewer components.

The volume of the holding chamber may be varied depending upon the intended use of the enclosure, e.g. depending upon how many insects and/or the species of insects that will be held within the enclosure. The holding chamber may for instance have a volume of up to or at least 250ml, up to or at least 500ml, up to or at least 750ml, up to or at least 1000ml, up to or at least 1500ml, and/or up to or at least 2000ml. In an embodiment, the holding chamber may have a volume of around 946ml (32 oz.).

Figure 2 shows an exploded view of the components of another example embodiment of an enclosure 20 for holding one or more insects according to the invention. The enclosure 20 has many similar features to the enclosure 1 illustrated in Figure 1.

In Figure 2, there is shown a lid 23 with a first air vent 21. The first air vent 21 comprises a mesh and provides, in use, ventilation to insects held within the enclosure 20. The mesh is sized such that, in use, the insect(s) cannot escape from the enclosure 20 via the first air vent 21.

A generally frustoconical principal receptacle 22 has a base 28 and an open end opposite the base 28. The principal receptacle 22 flares outwards from the base 28 to the open end. The base 28 of the principal receptacle 22 has an aperture 29 therethrough. The aperture 29 is at a non-central location in the base 28. In the side of the principal receptacle 22 there is a second air vent 27. The second air vent 27 comprises a mesh and provides, in use, ventilation to insects held within the enclosure 20. The mesh is sized such that, in use, the insect(s) cannot escape from the enclosure 20 via the second air vent 27. The side of the principal receptacle is also provided with a first connection port 32 and a second connection port 34. The first connection port 32 and the second connection port 34 are each adapted for connection to a tube, vessel or receptacle. As shown in Figure 2, a first tube 33 is connected to the first connection port 32 and a second tube 35 is connected to the second connection port 34. The provision of one or more connection ports (e.g. the first connection port 32 and the second connection port 34) allows a system, e.g. a modular system, to be assembled (and disassembled), in which a plurality of enclosures are interconnected. For example, the first tube 33 and the second tube 35 may lead from the enclosure 20 to another enclosure (not shown), thereby allowing the insect(s) to move from one enclosure to the other.

A collar 26 comprising a foam ring is provided, which is secured, in use, around the aperture 29 in the base 28 of the principal receptacle 22. The collar 26 may be secured to the inside or the outside of the base 28. Rather than being a discrete component, the collar 26 may be integrally formed with the base 28.

Together the principal receptacle 22 and the lid 23 define a holding chamber.

The enclosure 20 further comprises a generally frustoconical second receptacle 24. The second receptacle 24 is adapted to receive, in use, the principal receptacle 22. The second receptacle 24 is shorter than the principal receptacle 22. In a base 30 of the second receptacle 24, there is an aperture 31. The aperture 31 is at a non-central location in the base 30, which corresponds with the non-central location of the aperture 29 in the base 28 of the principal receptacle 22. In use, with the principal receptacle 22 received in the second receptacle 24, the principal receptacle 22 and the second receptacle 24 can be rotated relative to each other. Consequently, the apertures 29, 31 in the bases 28, 30 of the principal receptacle 22 and the second receptacle 24 may be brought in and out of registry. Thus, there is provided an inlet having an open condition (i.e. when the apertures are aligned) and a closed condition (i.e. when the apertures do not overlap). When the inlet is in the open condition, a user can load one or more insects into the holding chamber. The inlet can then be quickly and easily closed to prevent the insect(s) from escaping from holding chamber by rotating the principal receptacle 22 and the second receptacle 24 relative to each other such that the apertures 29, 31 do not overlap.

The enclosure 20 further comprises a stand 25 having a generally frustoconical shape. The stand 25 is wider at its base 32 than at its top. The stand 25 comprises a base 32 and an open end at its top. When assembling the enclosure 20, the principal receptacle 22 and the second receptacle 24 are received in, and supported by, the stand 25. Typically, there is a gap between the base 30 of the second receptacle 24 and the base 32 of the stand 25.

Optionally, the enclosure 20 may be used in combination with a feeder. The feeder may comprise a syringe, which may be disposed such that it extends upwards through the apertures 31, 29 in the bases of the second receptacle 24 and the principal receptacle 22 respectively, e.g. as described above in relation to Figure 1. Additionally or alternatively, the enclosure 20 (or any other enclosure according to the invention) may be used with other types of feeder, the feeder(s) being arranged to provide food, in use, to the insect(s) within the holding chamber. For instance, suitable types of feeder for use with an enclosure according to the invention may include: a gravity-fed feeder; or a reservoir with a wick extending upwards therefrom.

Figure 3 shows an example embodiment of a feeder 40 according to the invention. The feeder 40 is adapted for use in toxicity experiments on insects such as bees or moths.

The feeder 40 comprises a syringe. The syringe comprises a body 41 for containing, in use, food for insects. The body 41 is transparent in part and is provided with markings indicating the volume of food in the syringe. Hence, the amount of food within the feeder can be monitored. A plunger 42 is movable longitudinally within the body 41. At a distal end of the 41 there is a small hole 43, through which, in use, the insect(s) access the food. The body 41 does not have a tip or a needle. It has been found that insects such as bees and moths struggle to access food within a syringe-like feeder having a tip or a needle. At least a portion of the body 41 has a rough or textured surface 44. The rough or textured surface 44 extends along substantially the entire length of the body 41. The rough or textured surface 44 is beneficial, since it makes it easier (i.e. less stressful) for the insects, e.g. bees or moths, to walk on the body 41 to access the food in the feeder 40. In an embodiment, the rough or textured surface may be formed from masking tape or autoclave tape.

Figure 4 shows the feeder 40 of Figure 3 in combination with an enclosure 1' according to the invention. The enclosure 1' shares many similarities with the enclosures 1, 20 described earlier. The enclosure 1' comprises a generally frustoconical principal receptacle 2'. The principal receptacle 2' flares outwards from a base to an open end. The base of the principal receptacle 2' has an aperture therethrough. The aperture is at a non-central location in the base. A lid 3' closes the open end of the principal receptacle 2'. Together the lid 3' and the principal receptacle 2' define a holding chamber for one or more insects such as bees or moths.

The principal receptacle 2' is received in a shorter generally frustoconical second receptacle 4'. The second receptacle 4' flares outwards from a base to an open end. The base of the second receptacle 4' has an aperture therethrough. The aperture is at a non-central location in the base of the second receptacle 4', which substantially corresponds with the non-central location of the aperture in the base of the principal receptacle 2'. The principal receptacle 2' and the second receptacle 4' can be rotated relative to each other, in use, to bring the apertures into and out of alignment, thereby opening and closing an inlet. A collar 6' is attached to the outside of, and surrounds the aperture in, the base of the principal receptacle 2'. The feeder 40 extends into the holding chamber through the aperture in the base of the second receptacle 4', the collar 6' and the aperture in the base of the principal receptacle 2'. Conveniently, the principal receptacle 2' may be transparent at least in part to enable monitoring of the behaviour of the insect(s) within the enclosure 1' and/or of the amount of food in the feeder 40.

Figure 5 shows another example embodiment of a feeder 50 according to the invention. The feeder 50 is adapted for use in toxicity experiments on insects such as bees or moths.

The feeder 50 comprises a syringe. The syringe comprises a body 51 for containing, in use, food for insects. The body 51 is transparent in part and is provided with markings indicating the volume of food in the syringe. Hence, the amount of food within the feeder 50 can be monitored. A plunger 52 is movable longitudinally within the body 51. At a distal end of the body 51 there is a small hole 53, through which, in use, the insect(s) access the food. The body 51 does not have a tip or a needle. It has been found that the insect(s) struggle to access food within a syringe-like feeder having a tip or a needle. By providing a small hole, rather than a tip or needle, the insect(s) may become less stressed when accessing food. At least a portion of the body 51 has a rough or textured surface 54. The rough or textured surface 54 extends along substantially the entire length of the body 51. The rough or textured surface 54 may be beneficial, since it can make it easier (i.e. less stressful) for the insects, e.g. bees or moths, to walk on the body 51 to access the food in the feeder 50. In an embodiment, the rough or textured surface may be formed from masking tape or autoclave tape.

The feeder 50 further comprises an artificial flower 55 arranged around the small hole 53. The artificial flower 55 may be brightly coloured to attract the attention of insects and draw them to the food in the feeder 50. Additionally, the artificial flower may provide a platform on which the insects can stand when accessing the food in the feeder 50. Thus, the artificial flower 55 may act to reduce stress in the insects being held within the enclosure. The provision of an artificial flower has been found to be particularly beneficial for carrying out toxicity tests on species of solitary bee.

Figure 6 shows the feeder 50 of Figure 5 in combination with an enclosure 1 according to the invention. The enclosure 1 shares many similarities with the enclosure 1' shown in Figure 4. The enclosure 1 comprises a generally frustoconical principal receptacle 2. The principal receptacle 2 flares outwards from a base to an open end. The base of the principal receptacle 2 has an aperture therethrough. The aperture is at a non-central location in the base. A lid 3 closes the open end of the principal receptacle 2. Together the lid 3 and the principal receptacle 2 define a holding chamber.

The principal receptacle 2 is received in a shorter generally frustoconical second receptacle 4. The second receptacle 4 flares outwards from a base to an open end. The base of the second receptacle 4 has an aperture therethrough. The aperture is at a non-central location in the base of the second receptacle 4, which substantially corresponds with the non-central location of the aperture in the base of the principal receptacle 4. The principal receptacle 2 and the second receptacle 4 can be rotated relative to each other, in use, to bring the apertures into and out of alignment, thereby opening and closing an inlet. The feeder 50 extends into the holding chamber through the aperture in the base of the second receptacle 4and the aperture in the base of the principal receptacle 2. Conveniently, the principal receptacle 2' may be transparent at least in part to enable monitoring of the behaviour of the insect(s) within the enclosure 1 and/or of the amount of food in the feeder 50.

Figure 7 shows another example embodiment of an enclosure 70 according to the invention. The enclosure 70 is adapted for holding one or more insects, e.g. bees or moths, and for carrying out an oral toxicity test on the insect(s) held within the enclosure 70.

The enclosure 70 comprises a holding chamber, which is defined in part by a generally frustoconical principal receptacle 72 having a base 78 and an open end opposite the base 78. The principal receptacle 72 flares outwardly from the base 78 to the open end. A lid 73 is fitted to the principal receptacle 72 to close the open end. An air vent (not shown) is provided in the principal receptacle 72 and/or the lid 73. The base 78 has an aperture therethrough. A collar 76 is attached to the underside of the base 78 and surrounds the aperture in the base 78. In an embodiment, the collar 76 may comprise a foam ring.

The enclosure 70 further comprises a second generally frustoconical receptacle 74, in which is received the principal receptacle 72. The second receptacle 74 is shorter than the principal receptacle 72. In a base 79 of the second receptacle 74, there is an aperture. In use, with the principal receptacle 72 received in the second receptacle 74, the principal receptacle 72 and the second receptacle 74 can be rotated relative to each other. Consequently, the apertures in the bases 78, 79 of the principal receptacle 72 and the second receptacle 74 may be brought in and out of registry. Thus, there is provided an inlet having an open condition (i.e. when the apertures are aligned) and a closed condition (i.e. when the apertures do not overlap). When the inlet is in the open condition, a user can load one or more insects into the holding chamber. The inlet can then be quickly and easily closed to prevent the insects from escaping from the holding chamber by rotating the principal receptacle 72 and the second receptacle 74 relative to each other such that the apertures do not overlap.

A gravity-fed feeder 75 is coupled to the enclosure 70. The gravity-fed feeder 75 extends into the principal receptacle 72 through a port 71 in a side of the principal receptacle 72. The gravity-fed feeder 75 comprises a body for containing, in use, food for insects. The body is transparent at least in part and is provided with markings indicating the volume of food in the syringe. Hence, the amount of food within the feeder 75 can be monitored. The body is disposed adjacent the outside of the principal receptacle 72. At a lower end of the body, the body communicates with a portion oriented perpendicularly to the body, which portion passes through the port and terminates in a trough 77, from which, in use, insects in the enclosure 70 can access the food.

Figure 8 shows an example embodiment of a system 80 for carrying out a toxicity test on insects such as bees or moths according to the invention. The system 80 is a modular system comprising three interconnected enclosures.

A first enclosure 81 comprises a holding chamber, which is defined in part by a generally frustoconical principal receptacle 82 having a base 90 and an open end opposite the base 90. The principal receptacle 82 flares outwardly from the base 90 to the open end. A lid 83 is fitted to the principal receptacle 82 to close the open end. An air vent (not shown) is provided in the principal receptacle 82 and/or the lid 83. The base 90 has an aperture therethrough. A collar 86 is attached to the underside of the base 90 and surrounds the aperture. In an embodiment, the collar 86 may comprise a foam ring. In a side of the principal receptacle 82 there is provided a connection port 88.

The first enclosure 81 further comprises a second generally frustoconical receptacle 84, in which is received the principal receptacle 82. The second receptacle 84 is shorter than the principal receptacle 82. In a base 91 of the second receptacle 84, there is an aperture. In use, with the principal receptacle 82 received in the second receptacle 84, the principal receptacle 82 and the second receptacle 84 can be rotated relative to each other. Consequently, the apertures in the bases 90, 91 of the principal receptacle 82 and the second receptacle 84 may be brought in and out of registry. Thus, there is provided an inlet having an open condition (i.e. when the apertures are aligned) and a closed condition (i.e. when the apertures do not overlap). When the inlet is in the open condition, a user can load one or more insects into the holding chamber. The inlet can then be quickly and easily closed to prevent the insects from escaping from the holding chamber by rotating the principal receptacle 82 and the second receptacle 84 relative to each other such that the apertures do not overlap.

The first enclosure 81 further comprises a stand 85 having a generally frustoconical shape. The stand 5 comprises a base 92 and an open end at its top. The stand 85 is wider at its base 92 than at its top. The principal receptacle 82 and the second receptacle 84 are received in, and supported by, the stand 85. There is a gap between the base 91 of the second receptacle 84 and the base 92 of the stand 85.

In Figure 8, the apertures in the base 90 of the principal receptacle 82 and the base 91 of the second receptacle 84 are in registry with each other. A feeder 87 in the form of a syringe extends upwardly through the aperture in the base of the second receptacle 84, through the collar 86 and through the aperture in the base of the principal receptacle 82. The syringe has a plunger movable within a main body. The main body is transparent at least in part and is provided with markings indicating the volume of food in the syringe. The free end of the plunger is located in the gap between the base 92 of the stand 85 and the base 91 of the second receptacle 84. Accordingly, the stand 85 provides a stable base for the enclosure 81. In use, the feeder 87 contains food, typically a sugar solution, for the insect(s) within the enclosure. In an oral toxicity test, a given potentially toxic chemical under investigation may be added to the food in a desired concentration. The syringe is adapted for use in oral toxicity tests on insects The syringe contains at its distal end a small hole, through which the insect(s) access the food. The syringe does not have a tip or a needle.

A second enclosure 81' comprises a holding chamber, which is defined in part by a generally frustoconical principal receptacle 82' having a base 90' and an open end opposite the base 90'. The principal receptacle 82' flares outwardly from the base 90' to the open end. A lid 83' is fitted to the principal receptacle 82' to close the open end. An air vent (not shown) is provided in the principal receptacle 82' and/or the lid 83'. The base 90' has an aperture therethrough. A collar 86' is attached to the underside of the base 90' and surrounds the aperture. In an embodiment, the collar 86' may comprise a foam ring. In a side of the principal receptacle 82' there is provided a first connection port 88a' and a second connection port 88b'. In this embodiment, the first connection port 88a' and the second connection port 88b' are located substantially opposite each other.

The second enclosure 81' further comprises a second generally frustoconical receptacle 84', in which is received the principal receptacle 82'. The second receptacle 84' is shorter than the principal receptacle 82'. In a base 91' of the second receptacle 84', there is an aperture. In use, with the principal receptacle 82' received in the second receptacle 84', the principal receptacle 82' and the second receptacle 84' can be rotated relative to each other. Consequently, the apertures in the bases 90', 91' of the principal receptacle 82' and the second receptacle 84' may be brought in and out of registry. Thus, there is provided an inlet having an open condition (i.e. when the apertures are aligned) and a closed condition (i.e. when the apertures do not overlap). When the inlet is in the open condition, a user can load one or more insects into the holding chamber. The inlet can then be quickly and easily closed to prevent the insects from escaping from the holding chamber by rotating the principal receptacle 82' and the second receptacle 84' relative to each other such that the apertures do not overlap.

The second enclosure 81' further comprises a stand 85' having a generally frustoconical shape. The stand 85' comprises a base 92' and an open end at its top. The stand 85' is wider at its base 92' than at its top. The principal receptacle 82' and the second receptacle 84' are received in, and supported by, the stand 85'. There is a gap between the base 91' of the second receptacle 84' and the base 92' of the stand 85'.

In Figure 8, the apertures in the base 90' of the principal receptacle 82' and the base 91' of the second receptacle 84' are in registry with each other. A feeder 87' in the form of a syringe extends upwardly through the aperture in the base 91' of the second receptacle 84', through the collar 86' and through the aperture in the base 90' of the principal receptacle 82'. The syringe has a plunger movable within a main body. The main body is transparent at least in part and is provided with markings indicating the volume of food in the syringe. The free end of the plunger is located in the gap between the base 92' of the stand 85' and the base 91' of the second receptacle 84'. Accordingly, the stand 85' provides a stable base for the enclosure 8Γ. In use, the feeder 87' contains food, typically a sugar solution, for the insect(s) within the enclosure. In an oral toxicity test, a given potentially toxic chemical under investigation may be added to the food in a desired concentration. The syringe is adapted for use in oral toxicity tests on insects. The syringe contains at its distal end a small hole, through which the insect(s) access the food. The syringe does not have a tip or a needle.

A third enclosure 81 comprises a holding chamber, which is defined in part by a generally frustoconical principal receptacle 82 having a base 90 and an open end opposite the base 90. The principal receptacle 82 flares outwardly from the base 90 to the open end. A lid 83 is fitted to the principal receptacle 82 to close the open end. An air vent (not shown) is provided in the principal receptacle 82 and/or the lid 83. The base 90 has an aperture therethrough. A collar 86 is attached to the underside of the base 90 and surrounds the aperture. In an embodiment, the collar 86 may comprise a foam ring. In a side of the principal receptacle 82 there is provided a connection port 88.

The third enclosure 81 further comprises a second generally frustoconical receptacle 84, in which is received the principal receptacle 82. The second receptacle 84 is shorter than the principal receptacle 82. In a base 91 of the second receptacle 84, there is an aperture. In use, with the principal receptacle 82 received in the second receptacle 84, the principal receptacle 82 and the second receptacle 84 can be rotated relative to each other. Consequently, the apertures in the bases 90, 91 of the principal receptacle 82 and the second receptacle 84 may be brought in and out of registry. Thus, there is provided an inlet having an open condition (i.e. when the apertures are aligned) and a closed condition (i.e. when the apertures do not overlap). When the inlet is in the open condition, a user can load one or more insects into the holding chamber. The inlet can then be quickly and easily closed to prevent the insects from escaping from the holding chamber by rotating the principal receptacle 82 and the second receptacle 84 relative to each other such that the apertures do not overlap.

The third enclosure 81 further comprises a stand 85 having a generally frustoconical shape. The stand 85' comprises a base 92 and an open end at its top. The stand 85 is wider at its base 92 than at its top. The principal receptacle 82 and the second receptacle 84 are received in, and supported by, the stand 85. There is a gap between the base 91 of the second receptacle 84 and the base 92 of the stand 85.

In Figure 8, the apertures in the base 90 of the principal receptacle 82 and the base 91 of the second receptacle 84 are in registry with each other. A feeder 87 in the form of a syringe extends upwardly through the aperture in the base 91 of the second receptacle 84, through the collar 86 and through the aperture in the base 90 of the principal receptacle 82. The syringe has a plunger movable within a main body. The main body is transparent at least in part and is provided with markings indicating the volume of food in the syringe. The free end of the plunger is located in the gap between the base 92 of the stand 85 and the base 91 of the second receptacle 84. Accordingly, the stand 85 provides a stable base for the enclosure 81. In use, the feeder 87 contains food, typically a sugar solution, for the insect(s) within the enclosure. In an oral toxicity test, a given potentially toxic chemical under investigation may be added to the food in a desired concentration. The syringe is adapted for use in oral toxicity tests on insects. The syringe contains at its distal end a small hole, through which the insect(s) access the food. The syringe does not have a tip or a needle.

In the system 80, the first enclosure 81 is connected to the second enclosure 81' by a first tube 89. The first tube 89 extends between the connecting port 88 of the first enclosure 81 and the first connecting port 88a' of the second enclosure 81'. The second enclosure 81' is connected to the third enclosure 81 by a second tube 89'.

The second tube 89' extends between the second connecting port 88b' of the second enclosure 81' and the connecting port 88 of the third enclosure 81. Figure 9 is a schematic top view of the modular system 80 of Figure 8.

In this embodiment, the enclosures are generally the same as each other. In other embodiments, however, the enclosures may differ from one another.

Figure 10 shows a schematic top view of another example of a modular system 100 according to the invention. The system comprises a first enclosure 101, a second enclosure 102 and a third enclosure 103. The first enclosure 101 is connected to the second enclosure 102 by a first tube 104. A second tube 105 connects the second enclosure 102 to the third enclosure 103. A third tube 106 connects the third enclosure 103 to the first enclosure 101. Accordingly, each enclosure 101, 102, 103 is connected to the other two enclosures. The enclosures may each be an enclosure according to the invention.

It will be appreciated that a system according to the invention may comprise any number of enclosures according to the invention. Typically, the systems may be modular. Consequently, it may be relatively easy to assemble a system having a design appropriate for a laboratory test being carried out.

In some embodiments, the system may comprise one or more sensors, e.g. movement sensors, arranged to sense movement of insects. The sensor(s) may be connected to data loggers. For instance, one or more sensors may be arranged to sense movement of insects from one enclosure to another. The one or more sensors may sense movement along a tube connecting one enclosure to another. In some embodiments, one of more of the insects held in the system may be tagged, e.g. with a distinctive marking or with an RFID tag. Consequently, the sensors may be able to track the movement of specific insects. This may be of particular interest when conducting a choice test, in which insects within the system are free to move from one enclosure to another, thereby choosing to be in a particular enclosure at a given time. In a choice test, the amount and type of food available could vary from one enclosure to another.

It will be appreciated that the or each feeder (e.g. as illustrated in Figure 1 or any one of Figures 3 to 8) may have any suitable volume. For instance, the or each feeder may have capacity for up to or at least 5ml of food, up to or at least 25ml of food, up to or at least 50ml of food, and/or up to or at least 100ml of food.

In an embodiment, a feeder according to the invention of the type illustrated in Figures 1, 3 to 6 and 8 may be made by adapting a two-part, gradated, slip luer type, silicone- and latex-free syringe having a volume of 50ml or 5ml.

The enclosures and systems according to the invention may be suitable for carrying out toxicity tests on solitary bee species, social bee species or eusocial bee species. In use, each enclosure may hold for instance: 10 honeybees, three bumblebees or one solitary bee.

Enclosures according to the invention have performed very well in testing and may be particularly well suited to carrying out toxicity tests of long duration (i.e. chronic toxicity tests).

Initial tests have been carried out on four bee species and two species of moth (cabbage moth and yellow underwing moth).

For all test species, it was found that in excess of 75-80% of insects survived for more than 10 days within the enclosure. Generally, more than or around 90% of honeybees and bumblebees survived for more than 10 days within the enclosure. On solitary bees, tests of 24 days or more (i.e. almost a full bee lifetime) have been performed.

Figure 11 is a graph showing data from a series of trials, in which survival of bumblebees (Bombus terrestris) within enclosures according to the invention was measured. The percentage of bees alive is indicated on the y-axis and time (0-240 hours) is shown on the x-axis. At the start of the trial, there were 117 bees. The number of bees still alive was recorded periodically during the trial. The trial was repeated on several occasions. Across the several trials, it was found that: on average (mean), after 48 hours (two days), 99.38% of the bumblebees were still alive; on average (mean), after 96 hours (four days), 98.46% of the bumblebees were still alive; and on average (mean), after 240 hours (10 days), 93.21% of the bumblebees were still alive.

Figure 12 is a graph showing data from a series of trials, in which survival of honeybees (Apis mellifera) within enclosures according to the invention was measured. The percentage of bees alive is indicated on the y-axis and time (0-240 hours) is shown on the x-axis. At the start of the trial, there were 869 bees. The number of bees still alive was recorded periodically during the trial. The trial was repeated on several occasions. Across the several trials, it was found that: on average (mean), after 240 hours (10 days), just under 90% of the honeybees were still alive.

Figure 13 shows data from a series of trials, in which survival of a species of solitary mining bee (Osmia cornuta) within enclosures according to the invention was measured. The percentage of bees alive is indicated on the y-axis and time (0-240 hours) is shown on the x-axis. At the start of the trial, there were 35 bees. The number of bees still alive was recorded periodically during the trial. The trial was repeated on several occasions. Across the several trials, it was found that: on average (mean), after 48 hours (two days), 100% of the bees were still alive; on average (mean), after 96 hours (four days), 97.78% of the bees were still alive; and on average (mean), after 240 hours (10 days), 84.44% of the bees were still alive.

It is envisaged that the enclosures and systems may be well suited for holding other insect species, and potentially non-insect species, in a relatively stress-free manner, and, optionally, for carrying out toxicity tests on the held creatures.

It is envisaged that enclosures and systems according to the invention may greatly facilitate the carrying out toxicity tests on insects such as bees and moths, in accordance with best practice and/or standard test protocols. The enclosures and systems of the invention may provide researchers with the ability to hold insects for longer and, optionally, carry out toxicity tests of longer duration than has hitherto been the case. In addition, the enclosures and systems of the invention may allow researchers to collect and analyse more and/or richer data on the behaviour of the insects under investigation, e.g. insects undergoing a toxicity test.

Various modifications of the specific example embodiments disclosed herein will be apparent to the person skilled in the art without departing from the scope of the invention.

Claims

1. An enclosure for holding one or more live insects, e.g. bees, moths or butterflies, comprising: a holding chamber; and an inlet to the holding chamber; wherein the inlet is provided with an access control means, the access control means having an open condition and a closed condition, wherein, in use, with the access control means in the open condition, a user can load the one or more insects into the holding chamber and with the access control means in the closed position the insect(s) are prevented from escaping from the holding chamber.

2. An enclosure according to claim 1, wherein the inlet communicates with a lower portion of the holding chamber.

3. An enclosure according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the access control means comprises: a first part having an aperture therethrough, the aperture being in communication with the holding chamber; and a second part having an aperture therethrough, the second part being movable relative to the first part such that, in the open condition, the apertures in the first part and the second part are in registry, and, in the closed condition, the apertures in the first part and the second part do not overlap.

4. An enclosure according to claim 3, wherein the access control means is configured such that the second part is slidably moveable relative to the first part.

5. An enclosure according to claim 3, wherein the access control means is configured such that the second part may be rotatable relative to the first part.

6. An enclosure according to claim 3, wherien the access control means comprises at least one flap, the flap(s) being configured to cover the inlet in the closed condition and being movable to uncover the inlet in the open condition.

7. An enclosure according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the access control means is biased to the closed condition.

8. An enclosure according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the holding chamber is defined at least in part by a receptacle, which is circular in crosssection.

9. An enclosure according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising one or more air vents to provide ventilation to the holding chamber.

10. An enclosure according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein at least a portion of the holding chamber is transparent.

11. An enclosure according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the holding chamber is made at least partially from a plastic, e.g. poiytetrafSuoroethyiene (PTFE).

12. An enclosure according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a feeder arranged such that, in use, insects within the holding chamber can access food contained in the feeder.

13. An enclosure according to claim 12, wherein the feeder is disposed in the inlet.

14. An enclosure according to claim 12 or claim 13, wherein the feeder comprises: a syringe; a gravity-fed feeder; or a reservoir with a wick extending upwards therefrom.

15. An enclosure according to claim 14, wherein the syringe has no tip or needle.

16. An enclosure according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein within the holding chamber there is arranged one or more regions having a rough or textured surface.

17. An enclosure according to claim 16, wherein the region(s) having a rough or textured surface include at least a portion of the or a feeder.

18. An enclosure according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising one or more artificial flowers, branches and/or leaves.

19. An enclosure according to claim 18, wherein the or each artificial flower, branch and/or leaf is disposed close to, adjacent, or on, the or a feeder.

20. An enclosure according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein one or more pieces of plant material are located within the holding chamber.

21. An enclosure according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising a stand for supporting the holding chamber.

22. An enclosure according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising one or more connecting ports.

23. An enclosure for holding one or more insects, e.g. bees or moths, comprising: a holding chamber; and one or more regions having a rough or textured surface arranged within the holding chamber.

24. A system comprising at least one enclosure according to any one of claims 1 to 23 and an imaging means arranged to monitor behaviour of insects within the enclosure.

25. A system according to claim 24, wherein the imaging means is operable to record a film and/or to capture a series of discrete images.

26. A system according to claim 24 or claim 25, wherein the imaging means is connected by a data link to a remote workstation.

27. A system comprising a plurality of enclosures according to any one of claims 1 to 23.

28. A system according to claim 27, wherein at least two of the enclosures are interconnected.

29. A system according to any one of claims 24 to 28, comprising one or more sensors arranged to sense movement of insects, of insects from one enclosure to

30. A feeder for one or more insects such as bees, moths or butterflies, the feeder comprising a body for containing, in use, food for the insect, and a food access point, where the insect can access the food, wherein at least a portion of the body has a rough or textured surface.

31. A feeder according to claim 30, wherein the food access point comprises a hole or a trough.

32. A feeder according to claim 30 or claim 31, wherein the feeder comprises: a 10 syringe; a gravity-fed feeder; or a reservoir with a wick extending upwards therefrom.

33. A feeder according to claim 32, wherein the syringe has no tip or needle.

34. A feeder according to any one of claims 30 to 33, comprising an artificial 15 flower, branch or leaf close to or adjacent the food access point.

35. A feeder for an insect such as a bee or a moth, the feeder comprising a body for containing, in use, food for the insect; a food access point, where the insect can access the food; and an artificial flower, branch and/or leaf close to or adjacent the

20 food access point.

36. An enclosure for holding one or more live insects substantially as described herein with reference to the accompanying drawings.

25

37. A feeder for one or more insects substantially as described herein with reference to the accompanying drawings.

Intellectual

Property

Office

Application No: Claims searched:

GB1700539.8

1-22