What is a tool that entomologists use to suck small insects into a vial?

Entomologists utilize an aspirator as a key tool for collecting small insects. An aspirator is specifically designed to create a vacuum effect that allows for the gentle suction of insects into a collection vial without causing harm to them. This method is particularly useful for capturing delicate or small specimens, ensuring that they are preserved intact for further study or analysis.

In contrast, other tools have different primary functions. For instance, a vacuum might typically be more powerful and less precise, which could lead to damaging or destroying the insects being collected. Dissecting tools are employed for examining specimens, but they are not suitable for capturing live insects. Similarly, an insect net is utilized for sweeping or trapping insects in broader contexts, such as in the field, but it doesn’t facilitate the direct suction method that the aspirator provides. Thus, the aspirator stands out as the appropriate choice for the specific task of sucking small insects into a vial.