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ARS Home » Southeast Area » Fort Lauderdale, Florida » Invasive Plant Research Laboratory » Research » Publications at this Location » Publication #369949
Research Project: Identification, Evaluation, and Implementation of Biological Control Agents for Invasive Weeds of Southeastern Ecosystems

Location: Invasive Plant Research Laboratory

Title: Angels of death: The use of drones in the biological control of weeds

Author
item MINTEER, CAREY - University Of Florida
item Goode, Ashley
item David, Aaron
item Lake, Ellen
item Tipping, Philip

Submitted to: Entomological Society of America Annual Meeting
Publication Type: Abstract Only
Publication Acceptance Date: 7/22/2019
Publication Date: N/A
Citation: N/A

Interpretive Summary: The primary objective of classical biological control is the release of permitted agents. As these agents are very host specific, they must be released on or very near the target plants in order to be most effective. Depending on the characteristics of the target plant, the arthropod agent, and the specific release sites, effectively and efficiently conducting releases may be logistically challenging, time consuming, and even dangerous, and therefore it is important to find methods that increase the chances of a successful release. The use of unmanned aircraft, or drones, can aide in the release of arthropod agents and surveying efforts. Drones are versatile tools with near unlimited potential for use in scientific settings. For example, drones can release biological control agents in areas that are difficult or dangerous to traverse, survey potential release sites, and monitor both target plants and arthropod agents. Through their increased use and improved designs, drones have the potential to meaningfully contribute to biological control efforts.

Technical Abstract: The primary objective of classical biological control is the release of permitted agents. As these agents are very host specific, they must be released on or very near the target plants in order to be most effective. Depending on the characteristics of the target plant, the arthropod agent, and the specific release sites, effectively and efficiently conducting releases may be logistically challenging, time consuming, and even dangerous, and therefore it is important to find methods that increase the chances of a successful release. The use of unmanned aircraft, or drones, can aide in the release of arthropod agents and surveying efforts. Drones are versatile tools with near unlimited potential for use in scientific settings. For example, drones can release biological control agents in areas that are difficult or dangerous to traverse, survey potential release sites, and monitor both target plants and arthropod agents. Through their increased use and improved designs, drones have the potential to meaningfully contribute to biological control efforts.