Taxonomic focus and quality control in insect surveys for biodiversity conservation

The roles of detailed taxonomic interpretation in insect surveys are discussed, with emphasis on rapid biodiversity assessment, the levels of focus or penetration needed in particular contexts, and optimising the use of limited taxonomist expertise and resources. Quality control necessitates taxonomic accuracy and precision, and approaches to increasing these are noted. The complementary roles of taxonomists and ecologists in undertaking and analysing insect surveys are outlined, and a practical agenda linking their expertise is suggested as a means of improving capability in insect surveys for practical conservation.