Indian Experts, UK Scientists Devise OP to Repel Pest Attack on Coconnut

Four UK scientists recently collaborated with experts from Goa College of Agriculture to tackle the infestation in coconut orchards. Over six months, the researchers validated a technology aimed at early identification and mitigation of the devastating infestation, reports the Times of India on March 28.   
The innovative approach developed by the team involves strategically placing leaves as bait on coconut trees to attract pests, notably the red palm weevil. Advanced cameras, equipped with image analysis software linked to a central processor, are then employed to identify specific pests with precision.  Upon the detection of the red palm weevil, an immediate alert is dispatched to farmers via their mobile phones or laptops, enabling swift intervention to contain the infestation.
 
The principal of Goa College of Agriculture, Suresh Kunkaliencar said that during a trial run, hundreds of red palm weevils were detected, showing a heavy infestation burden in the tested orchards. Thus, early detection is key, and interventions help safeguard the agricultural landscape against the impact of fest infestation.