We have developed a novel device for automatic sensing, luring, and imaging insects that use substrate-borne vibrational signals for identifying and locating mating partners. The device is capable of measuring the activity patterns of these insects in a local area. It is intended to be used for monitoring pest insects; the current version of the device focuses on the treehopper species (Walker, Hemiptera: Membracidae: Smiliinae) that may serve as a vector for Grapevine Red Blotch Disease.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFThe invasion of , spotted-wing drosophila, across Europe and the US has led to economic losses for berry and cherry growers, and increased insecticide applications to protect fruit from damage. Commercial production relies heavily on unsustainable use of conventional toxic insecticides. Non-toxic insecticide strategies are necessary to alleviate the disadvantages and non-target impacts of toxic conventional insecticides and improve Integrated Pest Management (IPM).
View Article and Find Full Text PDFLife tables are one of the most common tools to describe the biology of insect species and their response to environmental conditions. Although the benefits of life tables are beyond question, we raise some doubts about the completeness of the information reported in life tables. To substantiate these doubts, we consider a case study (Corcyra cephalonica) for which the raw dataset is available.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFBackground: Drosophila suzukii is a significant invasive pest that has caused high management costs and economic losses for blueberry growers in the United States. The status quo control strategy commonly used by growers is to apply pesticides proactively and frequently to reduce infestation. Recent studies have shown that the calendar-based spraying strategy might be unsustainable in the long term, making the reduction of pesticide reliance a top priority for the berry industry.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFJ Econ Entomol
June 2023
Drosophila suzukii Matsumura (Diptera: Drosophilidae) is a key pest of soft-skinned fruit such as blackberry and blueberry. Differing seasonal spray regimes are expected to have variable effects on D. suzukii populations.
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