Bycatches of ecological field studies: bothersome or valuable?

1. Ecological field studies dealing with invertebrates are regularly applied, often using various special kinds of traps within a relatively intensive trapping program. During such programs, large amounts of bycatch - animal material not needed for the original scientific aim of the study - are collected. 2. We discuss general aspects about the handling of such bycatches. Given that the potential utility of bycatches from trapping programs can be immense, we strongly advocate a more thorough handling of the bycatch material than is currently typically practised. 3. Ways for an efficient transfer of bycatches between taxonomic experts have to be established. Problems concerning labelling as well as concerning costs and space for storage have to be solved to facilitate adequate management of the collected material.