As an alternative to chemical insect control, a physical control device has been designed, and the developed trap is solar-powered and suitable for day and night autonomous operation. The system includes a solar panel, battery box, sticky traps (blue and yellow), light source, water basins for trapping insects, a height-adjustable support structure (2ft – 8ft), and a light sensor circuit for automatic switching between operational modes. Trap is having coloured sticky sheets, light source and pheromones for attraction and water bowls and sticky sheets for trapping mechanisms.
The trap also has arms for installations of desired third-party smaller traps. Once charged, the solar insect trap can operate for 8-12 hours during the night, which covers the peak activity window of most nocturnal pests. In addition, due to automated switch ON and OFF, it works independently without needing operating personnel.
The trap is made of lightweight yet durable materials, making it easy to transport, assemble, and deploy in the field by a single person. Its modular components allow for quick setup without requiring specialized tools or expertise. The stand allows it to fix in soil and able to stand on solid surface in indoor conditions. The trap is suitable for both indoor and outdoor operations, can effectively trap a broad range of insects affecting crops and stored food commodities.
The trap has been found effective for various crops like paddy, brinjal, cabbage, chilli, mustard, guava, wheat, onion, and green peas. Apart from crops, the trap is also effective in management of insects infesting stored food grains and commodities.
The novelty of the developed technology lies in the compatible integration of different attractions and trapping methods, making the device suitable for a broad spectrum of crops and their pests, grown or stored under varied conditions.
(Source: ICAR-Central Institute of Post-Harvest Engineering and Technology, Ludhiana)
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