Sonne – innovatve light trap for use in integrated pest management

Abstract

Integrated pest management could be better implemented if more attractive devices to monitor harmful insects were available. The light trap is an option of attractive device, but its installation is only possible in fields supplied by an electricity distribution network. Thus, this study aimed at presenting an autonomous light trap developed for use in areas that are not covered by the energy network. Light emitting diodes (LEDs) were adopted as a low-power consumption light source. A C.C.-C.C. converter was also included in the project, as well as small-size 12V 7Ah batteries and a photovoltaic module for converting solar energy into electric energy. The prototype produced – Sonne – was then installed in an irrigated rice field and operated since October 2015, being compared to two standard light traps. The Sonne proved to be equally effective in attracting all groups of insects normally trapped by these traps at the same time intervals (F=0.99; p=0.50).