Can we use cranefly counts to monitor larval numbers?

Abstract: For most non-insecticidal controls for Tipula paludosa larvae (leatherjackets) it isnecessary to estimate the numbers present. Direct sampling of leatherjackets is resourcedemanding and reduction of effort is a precursor to widespread adoption of monitoring. Wereport a pilot study into the use of water trapping of adult craneflies to predict the size ofleatherjacket populations. We conclude that there is potential, that female trap catches are a betterpredictor than male catches, and that there may be a spatial element to predictions.