Light Trap

Book excerpt: The book covers information on some theoretical aspects related to working of light trap like organs of insect vision and orientation towards light source, electromagnetic radiation, spectrum visible/attractive to insects, characteristics of electric lamps used, factors affecting trap catches and identification of migratory phases based on analysis of light trap catches etc. Practical aspects include principles and practice of light trap operation, trap designs and light sources to be used and study of seasonal activity and direct control of pest population using light traps. Last chapter covers extensive reviews of field trials and experimental work conducted on survey and control of some economic species of crop pests. The manuscript is supplemented in the end with a list of references cited in the text along with selected references on light trap studies for consultation to all the concerned. The main objective of this book is to revive interest among the scientists, research scholars and students in using this novel technique of pest control and make it more popular among the farmers through research and extension work. We hope this book would serve as a reference/text book, meeting the essential requirements for advanced course 'Light trap as IPM tool'.