Fecha de publicación: 14/12/2024 Fuente: ISHS (International Society for Horticultural Science) Post date: Saturday 14 December 2024
Author:
ISHS Secretariat

Luka Batistič is a researcher and Ph.D student at the Biotechnical Faculty, University of Ljubljana, Slovenia, working under the supervision of Prof. Dr. S. Trdan. Together with his colleagues, Batistič is focused on developing eco-friendly alternatives to chemical pesticides, specifically exploring the use of mechanical pest control methods. Shield bugs (Pentatomidae) are a major concern in various crops, and their growing resistance to pesticides has increased the need for more sustainable solutions. In 2023, Batistič and his team conducted a field experiment to evaluate the effectiveness of a tractor-mounted insect vacuum as a potential solution for managing shield bugs and other bug species. The study was conducted at the Faculty of Biotechnology laboratory field area, targeting four crops: soybeans, alfalfa, sorghum, and sunflowers. These crops were selected as trap crops for stink bugs, and the goal was to determine whether mechanical vacuuming could successfully suppress these bug populations. The team performed three vacuuming sessions throughout the growing season, assessing stink bug populations before and after each session. Results showed that soybeans and alfalfa attracted the most shield bugs and other bugs (Miridae), with the vacuum reducing populations by up to 50% in these crops. Soybeans saw a particularly notable reduction in nymphs, with up to 65% fewer bugs after vacuuming. However, in sorghum and sunflower crops, where bug populations were already low, reductions were minimal. The study also emphasized the importance of operational parameters. Faster vacuum speeds and specific nozzle positions were more effective at reducing bug populations, especially for nymphs. This suggests that fine-tuning these settings could further enhance the efficiency of mechanical pest control. Although the tractor-mounted vacuum showed promising results, especially in soybean and alfalfa crops, further refinement is needed to improve its efficiency in controlling adult bugs and optimizing its use across different crop types. With further development, this method could be a practical addition to integrated pest management (IPM) systems, potentially reducing the reliance on harmful chemical treatments and promoting more environmentally friendly agricultural practices.
Luka Batistič won the ISHS Young Minds Award for the best oral presentation at the IV International Organic Fruit Symposium and II International Organic Vegetable Symposium in Poland in September 2024.
Luka Batistič, Biotechnical Faculty, University of Ljubljana, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia, e-mail: luka.batistic@bf.uni-lj.si
The article is available in Chronica HorticulturaeTags: insect vacuumpest controlCategories: Young Minds Award Winners