Farmers in Midwest tackle pests through insect sound detection

On a humid June morning, Emily Bick, an entomologist at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, is conducting innovative research to improve pest detection methods in agriculture. The focus is on the corn rootworm, a significant pest that causes substantial crop losses. Bick's project, known as the Insect Eavesdropper, involves attaching microphones to corn stalks to capture the unique sounds made by insects as they feed. This method allows for real-time monitoring without the need for harvesting crops. The initiative was inspired by a challenge from an Indonesian sugar factory, which sought a more effective way to detect moths damaging its sugar cane. With vast land under cultivation, traditional pest detection methods proved inadequate. Bick's approach not only addresses the immediate need for pest identification but also aims to reduce pesticide use by enabling farmers to apply them more strategically. Climate change has exacerbated pest issues, as warmer temperatures allow insects to thrive and expand their habitats. By focusing on sound detection, Bick hopes to provide farmers with a tool that enhances their ability to manage pests while conserving land for non-agricultural purposes. The research highlights the importance of understanding insect behavior and ecology in developing sustainable agricultural practices. Ultimately, the Insect Eavesdropper represents a significant advancement in pest management technology, encouraging a shift towards more environmentally friendly farming methods. Bick's work not only aims to mitigate economic losses but also to inspire a greater awareness of the intricate sounds of nature and their implications for agriculture.