Riyadh: The National Center for the Prevention and Control of Plant Pests and Animal Diseases (Weqaa Center) has introduced the “BugVape” Application Project, a novel technology endorsed by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) for the early detection of red palm weevil infestations after successful trials in Saudi Arabia. This initiative is part of a broader regional program aimed at managing Red Palm Weevil in the Near East and North Africa (NENA) region, focusing on bolstering efforts to control this harmful pest.
According to Saudi Press Agency, BugVape technology allows for the early detection of infestations, surpassing traditional methods of visual inspections by identifying the pest at its nascent stages. This capability for early intervention aids in ensuring effective and sustained control of the red palm weevil, thereby mitigating the economic damage associated with its infestation.
The project marks a crucial advancement in the integrated management of the red palm weevil within the Kingdom. Weqaa Center is focusing on expanding the use of this technology through strategic partnerships both locally and internationally, with plans for wider implementation after the completion of final evaluations and certifications.
Weqaa Center Plant Health Section Director Mohammed Al-Khuraiji pointed out the Kingdom’s significant achievements in pest control, with a recent infection rate reduction to just 0.27%, underscoring the continuous commitment to pest management and the adoption of advanced technologies.