Abstract

The automated trap developed by our team makes it possible to observe the emergence of insect species whose sex pheromones are known. The automated trap is in fact a sex pheromone trap combined with a built-in meteorological meter, extended with a computer system used for recording data and other purposes and a camera. The equipment sends the photos and the recorded meteorological data to a central server via internet connection. The energy necessary for the operation of the trap is provided by a solar cell. Over the last threeyears, the trap has been tested by monitoring the raspberry cane midge (Resseliella theobaldi). Our experience shows that in the observed species -presumably due to the high abundance of catches- the exchange of sticky inserts is required every three or four days. After the exchange of the sticky insert, the males flew in a large number to the sex pheromone for 2 to 3 days, and then their flight stopped. The phenomenon was also observed when the surface of the sticky insert did not become saturated with specimens. The prediction of the start of emergence of the pest can be solved with this trap. On the basis of 24-h monitoring, males do not fly onto sex pheromone traps at night and on rainy days.

Key words: Activity, automated trap, Resseliella theobaldi, sex pheromone, monitoring system.