As an alternative to measuring energy flow through primary productivity, students measure the transfer of energy at a higher trophic level—they modify environmental conditions to explore the effect on energy consumption. Using the kit's Vanessa cardui (painted lady butterfly) cultures and habitat chambers, students work in groups of 2 or 3 to plot the change in mass of a controlled environment (butterfly culture cups) and determine the efficiency of energy transfer from the food medium to the larva and ultimately the adult butterfly. The activities take about 2 weeks, concluding with the emergence of beautiful painted ladies. The kit comes with enough materials for 12 cultures and also includes thermometers and instructions for students and teacher. Note: Kit contains coupon for prepaid delivery of live materials; live materials can be delivered with kit upon request.