An Electrostatic Pest Exclusion Strategy for Greenhouse Tomato Cultivation

Abstract

Electrostatic devices generating an electric field (EF) are promising tools for greenhouse tomato cultivation. In these devices, an EF is generated in the space surrounding an insulated conductor (IC) that is charged by a voltage generator. Thus, a physical force is exerted on any insect that enters the EF, as a negatively charged IC (NC-IC) pushes a negative charge (free electrons) out of the insect body. The insect is polarized positively to be attracted to the NC-IC, and a grounded metal net (G-MN) repels the insect. This dual function of the apparatus (insect capture and repulsion) is the core of the electrostatic pest-exclusion strategy. In this study, we applied various innovative EF-based devices to evaluate their efficacy in greenhouse tomato cultivation. Our objective was to determine the optimal apparatus for simple, inexpensive construction by greenhouse workers. The results of this study will contribute to the development of sustainable pest-management protocols in greenhouse horticulture.

Potential Application of Organic Electronics in Electrical Sensing of Insects and Integrated Pest Management towards Developing Ecofriendly Replacements for Chemical Insecticides

“…Kakutani et al have reported an electrostatic pest exclusion system and showed that a current as low as tens of microamperes can be fatal to insects. [ 45 ] Still, the electronic trap should be safe if, e.g., humans or birds touch it by mistake. According to the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) guidelines, DC currents below 2 mA are generally not perceptible in the human body, while long‐term damage begins to occur from 25 mA onwards.…”

Electrostatic Techniques for Physically Managing Pathogens, Insect Pests, and Weeds in Field and Greenhouse Cropping Systems

“…These electric field-based devices are known as electric field screens and are of three types: single-charged monopolar, single-charged dipolar, and double-charged dipolar [5]. The force generated by these electric field screens has been harnessed to capture airborne spores [7], plant pollen [8], and flying insect pests [9,10]. In contrast, a different type of device, constructed with a non-insulated charged conductor, generates an arc (spark) discharge aimed at targets [11].…”

“…In contrast, a different type of device, constructed with a non-insulated charged conductor, generates an arc (spark) discharge aimed at targets [11]. This device is referred to as an arc-exposing electric field screen and is employed to manage insects and weed seedlings emerging from the ground [9]. Hence, these devices can be customized to suit the specific electrostatic characteristics based on the nature of the targets.…”