Storage arthropod pest detection – current status and future directions

A key element of a grain storage integrated pest management (IPM) system is the ability to monitor for the presence of arthropod pests and to reliably detect these, as early as possible, at low population densities. There has been considerable progress in the development of traps for monitoring storage insects and mites and progress has also been made in the development and validation of attractant lures to augment the traps and improve sensitivity. Proper interpretation of trap catch is an area for which further research is needed and this is linked to a requirement for risk assessment to enable appropriate prevention or control strategies to be implemented, based on pest presence. Improved knowledge of arthropod biology and behaviour is key to this area. This paper examines the latest progress in the development of attractant lures for insect traps, in particular the development of a multi-species lure for stored-product insects. It also reports on findings from recent research on aspects of arthropod biology and behaviour to improve understanding of the factors and interactions that influence trap catch. This includes studies on insect mobility and the response to temperature and moisture gradients. Finally, it will consider the research required to provide proper interpretation of trap catch and the integration with risk assessment strategies