This research will (1) create an up-to-date survey of moth presence and abundance in this ecologically important region of California, (2) contribute to a robust statewide insect collection and digital database sponsored by the Essig Museum and Cal Academy, and (3) provide us with data on viral diversity in natural moth populations which may ultimately allow new avenues of laboratory research on fundamental questions in evolutionary ecology, such as viral mediation of host population dynamics.

Approved