THE EARLY DETECTION OF RED PALM WEEVIL: A NEW METHOD

The red palm weevil (Rhynchophorus ferrugineus), or RPW, is considered one of the most dangerous pests facing palm trees in over 35 countries (including the GCC, Mediterranean, East Asia and part of Europe). Many attempts have been made to deal with this deadly pest, often referred to as the “palm cancer”. As of yet, however, no viable method to detect the pest in its various forms has been developed. This document gives an overview of the current detection methods and introduces a totally new technique for the early detection of the RPW. The method is based on a combination of medical, computer, and electronic technologies. Because the larva is the most dangerous phase of the pest due to the direct damage it inflicts on the infected tree, this document concentrates on this phase of the life cycle. Several graphics and photos are exhibited showing results of the tests that were performed in the course of developing this method. The paper also suggests new quarantine protocols that could help improve the efficiency and effectiveness of post-infection strategies. And finally the paper suggests possible directions for future research and product development.