ARS | Publication request: Adaptations of Acoustic Technology for Detection of Hidden Insect Infestations in Trees and Their Root Systems

Submitted to: Meeting Abstract
Publication Type: Abstract Only
Publication Acceptance Date: July 28, 2007
Publication Date: N/A

Technical Abstract: Insects that attack the trunks and roots of trees are difficult to detect and control because the tree structures hide and protect them. The vibrations caused by insects moving and feeding within the root systems can travel over long distances; consequently, acoustic technology is a likely candidate for use in a non-visual detection system. Experience with the use of acoustic sensors in trees and root systems has demonstrated, however, that background noise can severely degrade the effectiveness of such systems in typical agricultural environments. We consider here some of the recently developed techniques used to discriminate insect sounds from background noise.