Physical Management of Insect Pests

Physical control methods aim to prevent or reduce pest invasion into a crop. various physical means function either mechanically or by affecting insects’ viability or behavior. For example, insect suction devices, insect glue, and electromagnetic energy suppress insect populations. Insect exclusion screens also reduce insect density, though not through mortality. Also, color and chemicals are used to change insect behavior. Physical control methods may have some shortcomings, which must be weighed against their advantages. Physical control methods generally do not interfere with other control methods. Screens are often crucial for the implementation of Integrated Pest Management (IPM) programs. They enable the use of biological control agents as well as the use of insect pollinators. Generally, most physical control methods are environmentally safe, fit well into IPM strategies, and greatly reduce the use of chemical control.

Insect-Proof Screens and Covers

The physical exclusion of...