Passive traps and sampling bias: Social effects and personality affect trap entry by sticklebacks

Researchers routinely quantify the behaviour of subsets animals, using their findings to make inferences about wider populations. Broader conclusions, however, may be inaccurate if subjects that are tested not representative these One way this can arise is through sampling bias, which occur method collecting test disproportionately selects those with particular attributes, such they end up being over- or under represented within sample. Passive traps associated biases and have been shown target certain behavioural phenotypes in a range species. Here we asked whether funnel-type fish were more likely active social sticklebacks (Gasterosteus aculeatus). We found entered when already contained conspecifics individual measures activity predicted trap entry, captured sooner both empty. Unexpectedly, less-social conspecifics. Sampling potential skew data collected by researchers therefore highlight need acknowledge discuss for any consequences from published work. In longer term, research estimates various collection methods species would valuable resource helping devise designs.