Scientists at the Bioeconomy Science Institute Maiangi Taiao are trialling vibration-based technology which could shape the future of how fruit and vegetable growers manage unwanted pests.
Entomologists Dr Lloyd Stringer and Dr Bethan Shaw are leading the development of the technology which emits targeted vibrations to deter insect pests from crops right up until harvest, whilst still allowing beneficial insects to thrive.
“These signals not only drive unwanted insects away but also reduce their mating opportunities, helping prevent damaging populations from establishing and offering a sustainable alternative to conventional pest control methods,” says Dr Lloyd Stringer.
To support early testing, the team has been using off-the-shelf devices from the manufacturing industry to transmit the signals. Work is underway with a product design and fabrication company to develop an industry specific tool which could then be used by growers globally.
“Growers are always on the lookout for alternatives to current pesticides and to do that they need innovative tools,” says Dr Stringer.
“We see this spray-free technology as a valuable addition to the pest‑management toolbox to support growers to continually provide fresh and healthy produce to the consumers.”
Trials of the technology are currently underway in a commercial tomato glasshouse in Christchurch, where the team are testing a variety of vibration frequencies to reduce whitefly numbers. Dr Bethan Shaw says the aim is to design a system suitable for a wide range of crops grown indoors or outdoors.
“Ahead of the prototyped devices being built, the work we’re doing is going beyond the laboratory and testing and adapting the technology to work in commercial setting. Working with the growers at this early stage is key to ensuring what we develop will work for them.”
Dr Shaw says biotremology, the use of targeted vibrations to influence insect behavior, is a relatively new area of science.
“Our hope is that this research opens up an entirely new way of managing pests that is both effective and environmentally sustainable.”
Source: Bioeconomy Science Institute
