Light-based technology improves greenhouse pest control

Light frequency, trap placement, and operating schedules influence the effectiveness of pest capture in protected cultivation.

This was reported by FreshPlaza.

New experiments in South Africa have shown that precise adjustment of light parameters and trap placement significantly increases the efficiency of pest monitoring and control in greenhouses and open fields. The research focuses on thrips, Tuta absoluta, and various moth species that cause substantial damage to agriculture.

The studies found that pests respond to specific light frequencies, and that placing traps directly beneath the light source ensures maximum capture rates. In greenhouses, this makes it possible to optimize trap placement without increasing the number of traps used.

In addition, light systems tuned to particular frequencies are effective against different moth species in both protected and open-field crops. To ensure pollinator safety, the light sources operate only at night, when bees are not active.

The trials include various trap types, such as sticky traps, mesh traps, and fan-assisted traps. Optimizing operating schedules helps maintain trapping efficiency, reduce energy consumption, and minimize impacts on beneficial insects.

The results show that combining precise light tuning, proper trap placement, and controlled operating schedules makes it possible to create effective and sustainable pest monitoring tools for modern agricultural production.