Operational Parameters for the Aerial Release of Sterile Codling Moths Using an Uncrewed Aircraft System

Area of Science:

• Agricultural Entomology
• Pest Management
• Aerospace Technology

Background:

• The codling moth is a significant global pest of apples.
• The sterile insect technique (SIT) is a key component of integrated pest management (IPM) programs.
• Conventional aerial release of sterile insects using fixed-wing aircraft is often cost-prohibitive for large-scale IPM.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of small uncrewed aircraft systems (UASs) for releasing sterile codling moths.
• To compare UAS aerial release with traditional ground release methods.
• To assess the impact of release altitude and wind on sterile insect distribution.

Main Methods:

• Sterile codling moths were released using small UASs at varying altitudes.
• Insect distribution and drift were analyzed based on release parameters.
• Recapture rates were compared between UAS aerial release and ground release methods.

Main Results:

• UAS releases resulted in broader insect distribution at higher altitudes, with increased drift in strong winds.
• The majority of released insects were recaptured within a 50-meter swath below the UAS flight path.
• Aerial release via UAS demonstrated 40-70% higher recapture rates compared to ground release.

Conclusions:

• Uncrewed aircraft systems (UASs) present a viable and potentially more economical alternative to conventional aircraft for sterile insect releases.
• UAS technology can enhance the effectiveness of SIT programs for codling moth control.
• This approach offers a promising advancement in area-wide IPM strategies for fruit pests.