Biosensors
Reduction of pesticide use by quantification of plant diseases and pests in the field using biosensors
Our aim is to develop chemical sensors or biosensors which can detect and quantify specific plant diseases and pests. We envisage that these sensors could be mounted on platforms such as the Autonomous Platform and Information system for registration of diseases and pests in the crop. This information would enable a reduction in the use of pesticides by precise and targeted application.
 

Photos by Henny Bodil Rasmussen and Lars Monrad Hansen, DIAS, Flakkebjerg

 
To test the feasibility of this sensor concept, we have chosen two model organisms for which sensor systems will be developed: wheat yellow rust has been chosen as a model organism for a fungal disease, and bird cherry-oat aphid (Rhopalosiphum pad) in spring barley as a model for a pest. Both organisms are potentially some of the most damaging diseases and pests in Denmark. Two different sensor systems will be developed: an immunosensor for the fungal disease and a gas sensor for the aphids, both will be based on piezoelectric quartz crystal microbalances.
 

Participants
Danish Institute of Agricultural Sciences, Department of Crop Protection
Force Technology
 

Project Co-ordinator
Annemarie Fejer Justesen, Danish Institute of Agricultural Sciences, Research Centre Flakkebjerg

December 2004