Light Trap: A Dynamic Tool for Data Analysis, Documenting, and Monitoring Insect Populations and Diversity

Abstract

Insects have the ability to see ultraviolet (UV) radiation unlike vertebrates. Light sources that emit large amounts of UV radiation are often used to attract nocturnal insects. Devices that exploit this behavior, such as light traps are used for detecting pest outbreaks and forecasting. Some diurnal species have attraction to yellow color, and hence yellow pan traps are used for conducting surveys for pest outbreaks. Yellow illumination lamps have been used effectively to control the activity of nocturnal moths and thus reduce damage to fruits, vegetables, and flowers. Covering cultivation facilities with film that filters out near-UV radiation reduces the invasion of pests such as whiteflies and thrips into the facilities, thus reducing damage. Reflective material placed on cultivated land can control the approach of flying insects such as aphids. Hence, light trap has been found an essential part of Integrated Pest Management (IPM). According to the requirement, it can be set to either kill the pests or simply trap only. Trapped insects can also be used for study about the nature and their potential use in IPM. Light traps have been of significant importance in IPM and long-term planning.