Better Traps, Better Surveys: Optimizing Trap Design to Enhance Pest Insect Detection
Start Date
7-8-2026 10:15 AM
End Date
7-8-2026 10:30 AM
Location
ALT 204
Abstract
Invasive species pose substantial threats to both managed and natural ecosystems throughout North America. In the United States, the USDA Cooperative Agricultural Pest Survey (CAPS) coordinates trapping efforts for invasive insects using prescribed survey methods. However, improved trapping technology could increase efficiency and decrease survey costs. We conducted multiple trapping assays to assess the effects of trap design on the capture of potential pest insects. We tested the effectiveness of two trap designs, two attractant lure configurations, and three insecticide preparations in traps for the invasive box tree moth, Cydalima perspectalis. We also assessed the effect of adding two potential attractant compounds to an existing CAPS-approved lure for longhorned beetles. Finally, we compared saturated salt water and propylene glycol for retaining and preserving wood-boring insects captured in multi-funnel traps. The results of our work will allow the USDA to improve trapping technology for pest insects and have implications for international survey techniques as well.
Better Traps, Better Surveys: Optimizing Trap Design to Enhance Pest Insect Detection
ALT 204
Invasive species pose substantial threats to both managed and natural ecosystems throughout North America. In the United States, the USDA Cooperative Agricultural Pest Survey (CAPS) coordinates trapping efforts for invasive insects using prescribed survey methods. However, improved trapping technology could increase efficiency and decrease survey costs. We conducted multiple trapping assays to assess the effects of trap design on the capture of potential pest insects. We tested the effectiveness of two trap designs, two attractant lure configurations, and three insecticide preparations in traps for the invasive box tree moth, Cydalima perspectalis. We also assessed the effect of adding two potential attractant compounds to an existing CAPS-approved lure for longhorned beetles. Finally, we compared saturated salt water and propylene glycol for retaining and preserving wood-boring insects captured in multi-funnel traps. The results of our work will allow the USDA to improve trapping technology for pest insects and have implications for international survey techniques as well.
