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Award details
Optimising sticky traps for Western Flower Thrips and Whitefly using visual modelling.
Reference
BB/X011763/1
Principal Investigator / Supervisor
Dr William Allen
Co-Investigators /
Co-Supervisors
Professor Tariq Butt
Institution
Swansea University
Department
College of Science
Funding type
Research
Value (£)
50,364
Status
Current
Type
Research Grant
Start date
01/03/2023
End date
31/08/2023
Duration
6 months
Abstract
This project tackles the major agricultural pests Wester flower thrips (WFT, Frankliniella occiidentalis) and Greenhouse Whitefly (GW, Trialeurodes vaporariorum) by developing optimised sticky traps for improved monitoring and mass trapping. We will apply a design process that uses visual modelling of trap appearance from the pests' perspective to optimise the attractiveness of traps. Specifically, we will develop designs that use colour and pattern to target multiple pests and identify biodegradable materials to develop a low-cost low-waste solution. Optimised designs and carefully selected controls will be tested in experimental field trials in crops of strawberries, tomatoes, and peppers. Through more accurate monitoring of pest populations, the project improves pest detection and forecasting. By trapping target pests at a higher rate than current sticky traps, the product developed could also be used for environmentally friendly mass trapping control using sustainable low-impact materials. There is future potential too for a highly efficient multi-pest trap becoming a key component of an integrated pest management solution that provides automated monitoring for prediction and targeted control.
Summary
This project tackles the major agricultural pests Wester flower thrips (WFT, Frankliniella occiidentalis) and Greenhouse Whitefly (GW, Trialeurodes vaporariorum) by developing optimised sticky traps for improved monitoring and mass trapping. We will apply a design process that measures a pest's-eye-view of trap appearance to identify the most attractive and stimulating trap design. We will develop designs that use colour and pattern to target multiple pests simultaneously. Proposed designs will be evaluated in lab and field trials in crops of strawberries, tomatoes, and peppers. Finally we will identify biodegradable papers, inks and glues to develop a low-cost low-waste solution. Optimised designs and carefully selected controls will be tested in experimental field trials.
Committee
Not funded via Committee
Research Topics
X – not assigned to a current Research Topic
Research Priority
X – Research Priority information not available
Research Initiative
Crop pest and diseases partnerships [2022]
Funding Scheme
X – not Funded via a specific Funding Scheme
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