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Microwave treatment for pest control: the case of Rhynchophorus ferrugineus in Phoenix canariensis
Author(s) -
Massa R.,
Caprio E.,
De Santis M.,
Griffo R.,
Migliore M. D.,
Panariello G.,
Pinchera D.,
Spigno P.
Publication year - 2011
Publication title -
eppo bulletin
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.327
H-Index - 36
eISSN - 1365-2338
pISSN - 0250-8052
DOI - 10.1111/j.1365-2338.2011.02447.x
Subject(s) - rhynchophorus , weevil , palm , pest analysis , pest control , biology , insect pest , botany , agronomy , physics , quantum mechanics
Rhynchophorus ferrugineus (red palm weevil) is currently one of the major threats to palms in the Mediterranean area. No single technique developed up to now seems able to completely eradicate this pest. This paper introduces microwave treatment as an effective tool to help the control of this insect; the effect of microwave radiation on palm tissues and on the curculionid is described and discussed. The main advantage of microwaves is their eco‐compatibility, and preliminary results of their application to Rhynchophorus ferrugineus control are very promising.