Denmark students launch massive insect biodiversity project

Approximately 30,000 students across Denmark are participating in the Astra Mass Experiment, described as the largest student science project of its kind. Representing 95 of the country's 98 municipalities, students from 532 schools and 1,377 classes are working to map the biodiversity of Denmark's smallest insects.

Participants are using innovative, homemade insect traps to collect thousands of insects and hundreds of spider webs, which serve as effective collectors of insect eDNA. During week 37, students will harvest, sort, and document their findings to submit to professional researchers. The project aims to create a comprehensive national map of insect species diversity, including those that have not yet been discovered, while providing students with authentic scientific research experience.