MEKONGLINK | Glocal Open Innovation Platform in Asia-Pacific Region

Market Problem: Challenges in Implementing the Pest Control and Monitoring System

Greenhouses provide a controlled environment for crops, but they also create an ideal haven for harmful insects. These pests are often difficult to detect due to their small size, secretive behaviors, and camouflage. The problem gets worse because insects can quickly adapt to control measures and pesticides, leading to:

• Reduced crop yields
• Increased costs due to heavy pesticide use
• Health risks for farmworkers and consumers
• Environmental damage from pesticide runoff

The Need

• Effective and sustainable solutions are needed to detect and control insect infestations in greenhouses early on, preventing them from reaching damaging levels.

Mekonglink Solution: Pheromone Traps for Smart Pest Management

The Pheromone Trap System offers a sustainable and effective approach to insect management in greenhouses. These traps utilize species-specific pheromones to attract and capture target pests, providing several key benefits:

• Early Detection: Traps capture insects as soon as they enter the greenhouse, allowing for early intervention before infestations escalate.
• Species Identification: Captured insects can be analyzed to identify the specific pest species, enabling targeted control measures.
• Population Monitoring: The number of trapped insects indicates infestation levels, guiding decisions on pest control strategies.
• IPM Integration: Pheromone traps serve as a cornerstone of Integrated Pest Management (IPM) programs, minimizing pesticide use and promoting a more sustainable approach.