Improving sensitivity of the detection trapping systems for invasive species

Effective insect detection systems are essential for preventing the establishment of exotic pests in New Zealand. Earlier detection of the introduced populations is very important in reducing the length, scope and the expense of any eradication program. For example, late detection gum-leaf skeletoniser, Uraba lugens resulted in the establishment of this pest in New Zealand and therefore early detection of invasive species is becoming increasingly important. Despite the power of most insect pheromones being used in the detection trapping system, the sensitivity of this system is poorly understood. There are very few studies that have attempted to estimate the sensitivity of detection trapping system. In this project a probability model will be developed to estimate the accuracy of the currant systems and the likelihood of detecting populations of different sizes and different trapping grids. This model will be vital for designing any future detection trapping systems.