Biological field studies are conducted to gather information about the distribution, abundance and life history of flora and fauna of Kentucky. Specialists in aquatic fauna, terrestrial vertebrates, invertebrates and plants (including lichens) conduct studies to determine which species in Kentucky are the most vulnerable to decline and eventual extinction. Stream seining, mist-netting and light trapping are a few of the sampling techniques used to gather biological information. The results of the inventories conducted by commission scientists as well as others are the primary source for information for the Kentucky Natural Heritage Database. This information is also the basis for most of KSNPC activities including development of the state listing of rare species, identification of sites of biological significance (and eventually nature preserves) and public and technical educational materials.