Award details

Development of Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology for insect tracking

Reference	BB/C000870/1
Principal Investigator / Supervisor	Professor Roderick Blackshaw
Co-Investigators / Co-Supervisors	Mr Christopher Woolley
Institution	University of Plymouth
Department	Biological Sciences
Funding type	Research
Value (£)	58,100
Status	Completed
Type	Research Grant
Start date	22/10/2004
End date	21/08/2006
Duration	22 months

Abstract

We will develop an 869MHz Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) system for detecting individually tagged insects. In the first quarter of 2004 the European Union will legalise the use of 2 watt systems at 869MHz, which will provide sufficient power for detection of tags at distance. The system would be invaluable for conducting studies investigating the individual-based movement of insects. Specifically, we wish to use the technology for studies of the spatio-temporal dynamics of carabid beetles (which are important biocontrol agents in cereal systems) but the approach would be applicable to many other arthropods. We will do the following: Development 1 - design and production of RFID tag. Design, build and testing of lightweight, waterproof tags with super-thin antenna design to maximise detection range. Development 2 -short and long range detection system for field use: Testing of tag under in use conditions for optimisation of (i) Close-range system for instantaneous detection of individuals for conventional mark-release. (ii) Fixed RFID pitfall trap. Use of short-range detection at a fixed point to record all individual beetles that enter its operating range. (iii) Testing of longer-range field-scouting system for in-situ detection of insects.

Summary

unavailable

Committee	Closed Committee - Agri-food (AF)
Research Topics	X – not assigned to a current Research Topic
Research Priority	X – Research Priority information not available
Research Initiative	X - not in an Initiative
Funding Scheme	X – not Funded via a specific Funding Scheme

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