Development of Remote Sensing Method for Detecting Infested Date Palms by Red Palm Weevil in Fars and Kerman Provinces

The Red Palm Weevil (RPW), Rhynchophorus ferrugineus Olivier (Coleoptera: Dryophthoridae) is known as the most dangerous and destructive pest to date palm trees. RPW is becoming a true concern and causes significant losses, environmentally and economically. In Iran, many palm trees have been infested by the RPW, and the number is constantly growing. The RPW spends the immature stages of its life cycle (egg, Larva and pupa) inside the trunk of palm trees which results in significant damage to the inner tissues of the palm trunks and eventually leads to the death of the tree. The early detection of infested palms is difficult. The larvae are responsible for damaging the palm. The adults fly and select new palms as oviposition sites and host for the new generation. A comprehensive framework for detection of infested palms by combining field data, Global Positioning System (GPS), spectral and hyperspectral data, acoustic data, thermal data, satellite imagery, climatic and environmental data, and digital elevation model can replace the conventional method. In frame of assistance provided through FAO’s Technical Cooperation Programme (TCP/IRA/4001), the assess of the phytosanitary measures, early warning and monitoring, integrated management and preventive measures of key pests and diseases of date palm in Iran, including RPW, are carried out. This initiative aims to improve and enhance the sustainable and integrated management strategies to minimize the risk of pests, enhance production, ensure increased yield of the crop, and promote sustainable growth of the date palm industry in Iran.