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Risk mapping of redheaded cockchafer (Adoryphorus couloni) (Burmeister) infestations using a combination of novel k-means clustering and on-the-go plant and soil sensing technologies

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Abstract

The ability to identify areas of pasture that are more likely to support damaging levels of the soil-borne, redheaded cockchafer (Adoryphorus couloni) (Burmeister) (RHC) would allow farmers to target expensive control measures. This study explored soil properties, measured via electromagnetic surveys (EM38), pasture biomass via active optical sensors (CropCircle™) and topography via GPS elevation survey as potential indicators of RHC population density. A combination of these variables was used to produce risk maps with an accuracy of 88 % at predicting likely RHC density-categories on a dairy property in the Gippsland region of Victoria, Australia. This risk mapping protocol could be used to improve sampling programs and direct site-specific pest management.

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Acknowledgments

This project was funded by Dairy Australia, GippsDairy and the Gardiner Foundation. We also thank Rebecca Bruce (DPI Victoria) and Ian Faithfull for their skilled technical assistance and the farmers for access to their properties.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Precision Agriculture Research Group, University of New England, Armidale, NSW, 2351, Australia

    A. M. Cosby, G. A. Falzon, M. G. Trotter, J. N. Stanley & D. W. Lamb

  2. C4D, University of New England, Armidale, NSW, 2351, Australia

    G. A. Falzon

  3. Department of Primary Industries, Biosciences Research Division, Rutherglen, VIC, 3685, Australia

    K. S. Powell

Authors
  1. A. M. Cosby
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  2. G. A. Falzon
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  3. M. G. Trotter
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  4. J. N. Stanley
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  5. K. S. Powell
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  6. D. W. Lamb
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Correspondence to A. M. Cosby.

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Cosby, A.M., Falzon, G.A., Trotter, M.G. et al. Risk mapping of redheaded cockchafer (Adoryphorus couloni) (Burmeister) infestations using a combination of novel k-means clustering and on-the-go plant and soil sensing technologies. Precision Agric 17, 1–17 (2016). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11119-015-9403-z

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