Pest control system and crop production method

Abstract

To provide a pest control system capable of keeping harmful insects for a long period of time SOLUTION: A pest control system comprising: a plurality of first light sources configured to irradiate a first area of a cultivation area in which crops are cultivated with light having a first wavelength for suppressing damage to the crops caused by pests; and one or more second light sources configured to irradiate a second area of the cultivation area with light having a second wavelength for collecting the pests and beneficial insects for suppressing the damage to the crops caused by the pests, the second area being a part of the cultivation area and smaller than the first area.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a pest control system and a crop production method. [Background technology]

[0002] Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2011-72200 discloses a method for exterminating pests by using light to attract insects that are natural enemies of pests (for example, phytoseiid mites, which are natural enemies of pest spider mites). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Patent Publication No. 2011-72200 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] Using the insect trap effect to attract insects to exterminate pests is certainly effective and more environmentally friendly than spraying pesticides. On the other hand, the attracted insects tend to stay in the area to prey on the pests as long as there are enough pests to prey on, but they will leave the area when the number of pests decreases.

[0005] We disclose an invention that solves the problem of realizing a pest control system that can retain insects (beneficial insects) that exterminate pests for a long period of time.

[0006] Alternatively, instead of the above-mentioned problem, an invention is disclosed that solves the problem of realizing a pest control system that can stably maintain the effect of pest control.

[0007] Alternatively, instead of the above-mentioned problems, an invention is disclosed that solves the problem of constructing a pest control system that reduces the number of beneficial insects released into the cultivation area as much as possible.

[0008] This specification also discloses inventions that solve multiple of the above-mentioned problems in a composite manner. [Means for solving the problem]

[0009] The pest control system disclosed in the embodiment comprises a plurality of first light sources that irradiate a first region of a cultivation area where crops are grown with light of a first wavelength to suppress damage to the crops caused by pests, and one or more second light sources that irradiate light of a second wavelength to gather the pests and beneficial insects that suppress damage to the crops caused by the pests in a second region that is a portion of the cultivation area and is smaller than the first region.

[0010] In addition, the pest control system disclosed in the embodiments comprises a first light source that irradiates light of a first wavelength, a second light source that irradiates light of a second wavelength, and a predetermined number of beneficial insects, and controls the light of the first wavelength that is irradiated onto a first area of ​​a cultivation area where crops are grown, and the light of the second wavelength that is irradiated onto a second area of ​​the cultivation area where crops are grown that is smaller than the first area, so that a certain number of pest insects that invade or occur in the cultivation area within a predetermined period of time are exterminated by the predetermined number of beneficial insects in the second area, and by adjusting the system so that some or all of the remaining pest insects are exterminated by the light of the first wavelength, the system allows the predetermined number of beneficial insects to remain continuously.

[0011] In addition, the crop production method disclosed in the embodiments includes the steps of releasing a predetermined number of beneficial insects into a cultivation area where the crop is cultivated, irradiating a first area, which is part or all of the cultivation area where the crop is cultivated, with light of a first wavelength for a predetermined period of time, and irradiating light of a second wavelength for a predetermined period of time to gather the predetermined number of beneficial insects released into the cultivation area and pest insects present outside a second area, which is an area smaller than the first area, into the second area.

[0012] The invention disclosed in the embodiments makes it possible to realize a pest control system that can keep insects (beneficial insects) that exterminate pests for a long period of time. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0013] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a system configuration diagram showing an example of a pest control system according to an embodiment, viewed from above. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a system configuration diagram showing an example of a pest control system according to an embodiment, seen from the side. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram of a first light source according to the embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram of a first light source and a second light source according to the embodiment. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a system configuration diagram showing another example (modification 1) of the pest control system according to the embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a system configuration diagram showing another example (modification 2) of the pest control system according to the embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a system configuration diagram showing another example (third modification) of the pest control system according to the embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a system configuration diagram showing another example (fourth modification) of the pest control system according to the embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0014] Hereinafter, embodiments for carrying out the present invention will be described. Furthermore, specific embodiments for carrying out the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. Note that the embodiments for carrying out the present invention are not limited to these specific embodiments. In other words, the illustrated embodiments are not the only embodiments in which the present invention can be realized. Note that the sizes and positional relationships of components shown in each drawing may be exaggerated for ease of understanding.

[0015] <Embodiment> A pest control system 100 according to an embodiment will be described. FIGS. 1 to 8 are diagrams illustrating an exemplary embodiment of the pest control system 100. FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of the system configuration of the pest control system 100 as viewed from above. FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of the system configuration of the pest control system 100 as viewed from a side. FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram of the first light source 11 as viewed from the light irradiation surface side. FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram of the first light source 11 and the second light source 12 as viewed from a side. FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram of the system configuration of another example (Modification 1) of the pest control system 100. FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram of the system configuration of another example (Modification 2) of the pest control system 100. FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram of the system configuration of another example (Modification 3) of the pest control system 100. FIG. 8 is a schematic diagram of the system configuration of another example (Modification 4) of the pest control system 100. FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram as viewed from above, and FIGS. 6 to 8 are schematic diagrams as viewed from the side.

[0016] The pest control system 100 includes multiple components. The multiple components included in the pest control system 100 include one or more first light sources 11 and one or more second light sources 12. There is also an area R1 where a crop P1 is cultivated. Beneficial insects B1 for exterminating pest insects H1 exist within the area R1.

[0017] Examples of the relationship between pest H1 and beneficial insect B1 include, but are not limited to, spider mites and phytoseiid mites, thrips and phytoseiid mites, etc. Depending on the crop P1 being grown, the type of pest H1 that gathers on that crop P1 may vary, and therefore the type of beneficial insect B1 that exterminates the pest H1 may also vary.

[0018] A first suppression method that suppresses damage caused by pest insect H1 using light and a second suppression method that suppresses damage caused by pest insect H1 using beneficial insect B1 are executed in pest control system 100. Furthermore, by effectively using the first suppression method and the second suppression method within area R1, pest control system 100 is realized that can suppress damage caused by pest insect H1 while allowing beneficial insect B1 to remain within area R1 for a long period of time.

[0019] First, each component of the pest control system 100 will be described.

[0020] (1st light source 11) The first light source 11 emits light having a first peak wavelength. The first wavelength is a wavelength of light that can suppress damage to the crop P1 caused by the pest H1, and the light of the first wavelength is light for suppressing damage to the crop P1 caused by the pest H1. For example, the light of the first wavelength is light that can exterminate the pest H1 by irradiating the pest H1 with a predetermined amount or more of light.

[0021] As a specific example, the first wavelength can be 265 nm or more and 315 nm or less. Note that first light source 11 does not have to irradiate only light of the first wavelength, and may also irradiate light with wavelengths less than 265 nm and light with wavelengths greater than 315 nm. Desirably, substantially all of the light irradiated from first light source 11 is in the wavelength range of 265 nm or more and 315 nm or less.

[0022] Furthermore, for example, the first wavelength can be set to be equal to or greater than 300 nm and equal to or less than 315 nm. As the first wavelength becomes shorter, there is a greater concern that the light of the first wavelength may damage the crop P1.

[0023] Furthermore, for example, the first wavelength can be set to 265 nm or more and 280 nm or less. If the shorter the first wavelength, the higher the extermination effect (insecticidal ability) on the pest H1, it may be possible to select light of a shorter wavelength.

[0024] Furthermore, for example, the first light source 11 may include a first light-emitting element 11A that emits light having a first wavelength of 300 nm or more and 315 nm or less, and a second light-emitting element 11B that emits light having a first wavelength of 265 nm or more and 280 nm or less. Depending on the state of the crop P1, the first light source 11 can be controlled so that, of the first light-emitting element 11A and the second light-emitting element 11B, only the first light-emitting element 11A is irradiated, only the second light-emitting element 11B is irradiated, or both the first light-emitting element 11A and the second light-emitting element 11B are irradiated.

[0025] Furthermore, for example, the first light source 11 may further include a third light-emitting element 11C that emits light for illumination, in addition to the first light-emitting element 11A and / or the second light-emitting element 11B. The light for illumination is typically white light, but is not limited to white light. Examples of white light include incandescent light, and light with a higher color temperature than incandescent light (such as daylight white or coke). For example, light-emitting diodes can be used as these light-emitting elements.

[0026] When the first light source 11 includes the third light-emitting element 11C, it may be preferable to prevent the third light-emitting element 11C from irradiating light simultaneously with the first light-emitting element 11A and / or the second light-emitting element 11B, since the illumination light may reduce the effect of the first suppression method performed using the first light-emitting element 11A and / or the second light-emitting element 11B.

[0027] (2nd light source 12) The second light source 12 emits light having a second peak wavelength. The second wavelength is light that has the effect of attracting and retaining the pest insects H1 and the beneficial insects B1, and the light of the second wavelength is light for gathering the pest insects H1 and the beneficial insects B1. By emitting light of the second wavelength from the second light source 12, the pest insects H1 and the beneficial insects B1 gather in the irradiation range.

[0028] As a specific example, the second wavelength can be 316 nm or more and 560 nm or less. Note that second light source 12 does not have to irradiate only light of the second wavelength, and may also irradiate light with wavelengths less than 316 nm and light with wavelengths greater than 560 nm. Desirably, substantially all of the light irradiated from second light source 12 is in the wavelength range of 316 nm or more and 560 nm or less.

[0029] Furthermore, for example, the second wavelength can be 316 nm or more and 340 nm or less. In order not to promote spore formation by filamentous fungi, it is preferable that the light emitted from the second light source 12 does not substantially contain light with a wavelength exceeding 340 nm. Light with a wavelength between 340 nm and 500 nm can promote the formation of filamentous fungi.

[0030] Furthermore, for example, the second wavelength can be set to 340 nm or more and 560 nm or less. In particular, to enhance the effect of attracting pest insects H1 and beneficial insects B1 (insect attracting effect), it is preferable that the second wavelength is set to 365 nm.

[0031] (Cultivation area R1) The cultivation area R1 is an area where the crop P1 is cultivated. The cultivation area R1 can typically be assumed to be an area such as a greenhouse, but it is not limited to a greenhouse. It may also be an area combining multiple greenhouses. Areas such as greenhouses are not sealed to prevent insects from entering the greenhouse, and insects that come from outside the greenhouse can move into the greenhouse. In other words, the cultivation area R1 is an area where pest insects H1 and beneficial insects B1 can freely enter and exit.

[0032] For example, the area defined by one greenhouse can be as small as 20 square meters. 2 , the largest one is 2000m 2 The cultivation area R1 is 2000m 2 It could be wider.

[0033] The cultivation region R1 includes a first region R11 that is irradiated with light from one or more first light sources 11. The cultivation region R1 also includes a second region R12 that is irradiated with light from one or more second light sources 12. The first region R11 is a part or all of the cultivation region R1. The second region R12 is an area smaller than the first region R11. The second region R12 may be a part of the first region R11. Alternatively, the second region R12 may be an area of ​​the cultivation region R1 that is different from the first region R11.

[0034] (Beneficial insects B1) The beneficial insect B1 is an organism that suppresses damage to the crop P1 caused by the pest H1. The beneficial insect B1 is an insect that exterminates the pest H1. The beneficial insect B1, for example, preys on the pest H1. Note that the beneficial insect B1 does not have to prey on the pest H1 as long as it can exterminate the pest H1 by repelling it, for example.

[0035] Next, the pest control system 100 will be described.

[0036] (Pest Control System 100) In the pest control system 100, one or more first light sources 11 are installed so that light of a first wavelength is irradiated onto a first region R11. The one or more first light sources 11 irradiate light of the first wavelength from above the crop P1 toward the first region R11 where the crop P1 is grown.

[0037] Furthermore, one or more second light sources 12 are installed so that light of the second wavelength is irradiated onto the second region R12. The one or more second light sources 12 irradiate light of the second wavelength from above the crop P1 toward the second region R12 where the crop P1 is grown. The region irradiated with light of the second wavelength by the one or more second light sources 12 is smaller than the region irradiated with light of the first wavelength by the one or more first light sources 11.

[0038] The effective irradiation range of the light emitted from one first light source 11 is, for example, 4 m 2 20m from 2 The "effective irradiation range" here refers to the range where the pest H1 can be effectively exterminated. In that sense, the range may change depending on the growing conditions of the crop P1, so the "m 2 "To that extent."

[0039] The effective irradiation range of the light emitted from one second light source 12 is, for example, 1 m 2 10m from 2 The "effective irradiation range" here refers to the range where pests H1 and beneficial insects B1 gather. In that sense, the range may change depending on the growing conditions of crop P1, so 2 "To that extent."

[0040] In the pest control system 100, the number of first light sources 11 installed can be greater than the number of second light sources 12 installed. For example, in one greenhouse (the cultivation area is 20 m 2 ~2000m2 ), the number of second light sources 12 installed may be one. Furthermore, the second light source 12 is not installed near the entrance of the greenhouse. When the second wavelength is 316 nm or more and 340 nm or less, taking into consideration the effects on the human body, it is preferable to install the second light source 12 not near the position that serves as the entrance and exit of the cultivation area R1 for people working in the cultivation area R, but to avoid installing it near the entrance and exit.

[0041] The size (area) of the first region R11 is at least twice the size (area) of the second region R12. Alternatively, the size (area) of the first region R11 is at least 20 times the size (area) of the second region R12. Alternatively, the size (area) of the first region R11 is at least 200 times the size (area) of the second region R12. Approximately the entire cultivation region R1 in which the crop P1 is cultivated can be the first region R11.

[0042] Pest insects H1 present in the first region R11 can be exterminated by irradiating the light of the first wavelength from the first light source 11. However, this does not mean that all pest insects H1 can be exterminated, including pest insects H1 that are hiding on the underside of the leaves of the crop P1, in areas shaded by the crop P1, or hiding in the soil.

[0043] Furthermore, the pest control system 100 does not exterminate all pest insects H1 with the light of the first wavelength emitted from one or more first light sources 11, but rather maintains a balance so that a predetermined number of pest insects H1 remain within the cultivation area R1. One way to achieve this balance is to adjust the size of the first area R11 relative to the cultivation area R1, that is, the range irradiated with the light of the first wavelength. Another way is to adjust the length of time the light of the first wavelength is irradiated.

[0044] In the pest control system 100, the light of the first wavelength from the first light source 11 and the light of the second wavelength from the second light source 12 are emitted at night. Since sunlight is emitted during the day, nighttime is more effective. However, the light of the first wavelength and the light of the second wavelength may also be emitted during the day.

[0045] In the pest control system 100, it is preferable to irradiate the light of the first wavelength from the first light source 11 at night when no one is working (for example, the late night hours from midnight to 3 a.m.). Because the light of the first wavelength is ultraviolet light, it is preferable to irradiate it at a time when no one is around, taking into consideration its effect on the human body.

[0046] The first light source 11 may be equipped with a sensor 13 such as a human presence sensor. The second light source 12 may be equipped with a sensor 13 such as a human presence sensor. The sensing range of the sensor 13 equipped in the first light source 11 or the second light source 12 is included in the effective illumination range of the light emitted from the first light source 11 or the second light source 12. Alternatively, the sensing range covers the effective illumination range. By providing a human presence sensor as the sensor 13, it is possible to stop the emission of light from the first light source 11 when a person is present in the effective illumination range of the light emitted by the first light source 11.

[0047] When the light irradiation surface of the first light source 11 is located at a height of 1.0 m to 2.0 m above the cultivation area R1, it is preferable to ensure that the sensing range of the sensor 13 is twice the illumination range of the light from the first light source 11. Because a portion of the light directed toward the cultivation area R1 from the first light source 11 is reflected by the cultivation area R1, by the time the reflected light reaches the height at which the first light source 11 is installed, the light from the first light source 11 has expanded to twice the illumination range in the cultivation area R1. Furthermore, since it is expected that the worker's face will be located at a height of 1.0 m to 2.0 m, ensuring a sensing range twice the illumination range can further consider human safety. This is particularly effective when the cultivation area R1 is provided with a reflective sheet.

[0048] In the first light source 11 or the second light source 12, the sensor 13 is disposed at a position where the light of the first wavelength or the light of the second wavelength is not irradiated. For example, the sensor 13 can be disposed on the outside of the housing of the light source. The sensor 13 can be disposed near the outer edge of the light irradiation surface on the side where the light of the first wavelength or the light of the second wavelength is irradiated. By disposing the sensor 13 in this manner, deterioration of the sensor 13 due to the light of the first wavelength or the light of the second wavelength can be suppressed.

[0049] In the pest control system 100, the light of the first wavelength is emitted for at least one minute by the first light source 11. The first light source 11 may emit light continuously or at intervals.

[0050] During the time period when the first light source 11 is irradiating light of the first wavelength, the second light source 12 does not need to irradiate light of the second wavelength. This is because while the first region R11 is being irradiated with light of the first wavelength, the movement of pest insects H1 in the first region R11 is suppressed. In other words, in the pest control system 100, while the second light source 12 is irradiating light of the second wavelength to gather pest insects H1 and beneficial insects B1 in the second region R12, it is better not to irradiate light of the first wavelength from the first light source 11.

[0051] In the pest control system 100, there is a time period during which the second light source 12 emits light of the second wavelength, but the first light source 11 does not emit light of the first wavelength. During this time period, pest insects H1 in the cultivation area R1 are gathered in the second area R12. On the other hand, it is not necessarily necessary to control the second light source 12 not to emit light of the second wavelength during the time during which the first light source 11 emits light of the first wavelength.

[0052] The illuminance and irradiation time of the light of the first wavelength emitted from the first light source 11 need to be adjusted appropriately not only in consideration of damage to the crop P1 but also in consideration of preventing excessive extermination of the pest H1 by the light of the first wavelength. 2 More than 25μW / cm 2It is considered that light with the following illuminance should be irradiated for 1 hour to 5 hours.

[0053] For example, using one or more first light sources 11 and one or more second light sources 12 having a second wavelength of 316 nm or more and 340 nm or less, between sunset and sunrise, one or more second light sources 12 are driven to irradiate light of the second wavelength for one hour or more, and one or more first light sources 11 are driven to irradiate light of the first wavelength for one hour or more. The time for irradiating light of the second wavelength is longer than the time for irradiating light of the first wavelength.

[0054] Between sunset and sunrise, the one or more second light sources 12 are driven earlier than the one or more first light sources 11. One or more first light sources 11 start to be driven one hour or more after the one or more second light sources 12 start to be driven. This allows the pest insects H1 to be gathered in the second region R12 first, ensuring food for the beneficial insects B1.

[0055] Alternatively, for example, one or more first light sources 11 and one or more second light sources 12 having a second wavelength of 340 nm or more and 560 nm or less are used, and between sunset and sunrise, one or more second light sources 12 are driven to irradiate light with the second wavelength for one hour or more, and one or more first light sources 11 are driven to irradiate light with the first wavelength for one hour or more. During the time period when light with the first wavelength is irradiated, light with the second wavelength is not irradiated.

[0056] Between sunset and sunrise, one or more second light sources 12 are driven at an earlier time than one or more first light sources 11. Furthermore, after the irradiation of light of the first wavelength has ended, light from the second light source 12 is not emitted for three hours or more. For example, since light of a wavelength of 365 nm may reduce the sterilizing effect of light of the first wavelength, light of the second wavelength is not emitted not only during irradiation of light of the first wavelength but also for three hours after the end of irradiation.

[0057] In the pest control system 100, a predetermined number of beneficial insects B1 are released into the area R1 in accordance with the emergence period of the pest insects H1. The number of beneficial insects B1 to be released into the area R1 is determined according to the area of ​​the area R1. A rough guideline for the number of beneficial insects B1 needed to sufficiently exterminate the pest insects H1 is provided by a company that handles beneficial insects for pest control. For example, in an area of ​​100m 2 The recommended number of hits is 600 for Phytoseiulus persimilis, 200 to 600 for Phytoseiulus californica, 2,500 to 5,000 for Phytoseiulus swirskii, 100 to 300 for Orius strigiformes, 100 to 200 for Aphididae, and 1,000 to 1,300 for Coccinellidae larvae.

[0058] In the pest control system 100, the number of beneficial insects B1 to be released into the cultivation area R1 is adjusted according to the size of the cultivation area R1, with reference to the number of beneficial insects indicated as a guideline. In other words, the pest control system 100 is provided with a predetermined number of beneficial insects B1 according to the size of the cultivation area R1. Note that in the pest control system 100, because there is a pest insect H1 that is exterminated by light of the first wavelength, this point is also taken into consideration when achieving a balance between the beneficial insects B1 and the pest insects H1.

[0059] In the pest control system 100, some of the pest insects H1 that continuously invade the cultivation area R1 from outside the cultivation area R1 are exterminated by light of the first wavelength from the first light source 11 before they reach the second area R12. The remaining pest insects H1 are gathered in the second area R12. In the pest control system 100, by irradiating the second area R12 with light of the second wavelength, a predetermined number or more of the pest insects H1 that invade the cultivation area R1 from outside the cultivation area R1 within a predetermined period can be gathered in the second area R12. The number of pest insects H1 that gather in the second area R12 is greater than the number of pest insects H1 that exist in the first area R11, which has the same area as the second area R12.

[0060] An adjusted number of beneficial insects B1 are gathered in the second area R12 so that the pest insects H1 are not depleted in the second area R12. If a predetermined number of pest insects H1 invade the cultivation area R1 from outside and reach the second area R12 in a predetermined period, and if a predetermined number of pest insects H1 are born in the cultivation area R1 and reach the second area R12 in a predetermined period, then it is sufficient to gather a necessary and sufficient number of beneficial insects B1 in the second area R12 to exterminate these pest insects H1.

[0061] In other words, the number of beneficial insects B1 to be released into the cultivation area R1 can be determined so that a certain number or more of the beneficial insects B1 out of the predetermined number of beneficial insects B1 released into the cultivation area R1 will continuously gather in the second area R12. The number of beneficial insects B1 can be determined based on the approximate number of pest insects H1 that invade the cultivation area R1 from outside the cultivation area R1 within a predetermined period of time, and the approximate number of pest insects H1 that are born in the cultivation area R1 within the same period of time. Note that, because it is difficult to confirm that all of the beneficial insects B1 released into the cultivation area R1 remain within the cultivation area R1, the term "a certain number or more of beneficial insects B1" is used.

[0062] If one attempts to exterminate pest H1 in cultivation area R1 using only the first suppression method, it will be impossible to exterminate pest H1 hiding on the underside of the leaves of crop P1 or pest H1 in areas that are in shadow and not sufficiently exposed to light of wavelength 1. On the other hand, if one attempts to exterminate pest H1 in cultivation area R1 using only the second suppression method, the pest H1 that was present in abundance in cultivation area R1 will decrease over time as the beneficial insects B1 exterminate them, and the beneficial insects B1 will also decrease accordingly, so if the number of pest H1 subsequently increases, it will be necessary to release beneficial insects B1 again, and beneficial insects B1 will have to be frequently replenished.

[0063] In contrast, the pest control system 100 utilizes the insect-attracting effect of light of the second wavelength to restrict the main activity range of beneficial insects B1 to a second region R12, which is part of the cultivation region R1, while attracting pest insects H1 from the cultivation region R1, which is larger than the second region R12, and from outside the cultivation region R1. This allows beneficial insects B1 to remain in the cultivation region R1 for a long period of time once released. Furthermore, by exterminating pests using light of the first wavelength in the first region R11, which is larger than the second region R12, pest insects H1 can be prevented from moving freely in the cultivation region R1 other than the second region R12 and causing damage to crops P1. Furthermore, pest insects H1 that were not exterminated by light of the first wavelength are attracted to the second region R12 and exterminated by the beneficial insects B1, thereby reducing pest damage to crops P1 in the first region R11.

[0064] By combining the first and second suppression methods while maintaining this balance, the beneficial insects B1 can be kept in the cultivation area R1 for a long period of time once released. Also, by appropriately adjusting the light of the first wavelength, the light of the second wavelength, and the beneficial insects B1, a pest control system 100 can be realized that continuously keeps a predetermined number of beneficial insects B1 in place.

[0065] Specifically, the light of the first wavelength irradiated to the first region R11 and the light of the second wavelength irradiated to the second region R12 are controlled, and a certain number of pest insects H1 that invade or appear in the cultivation region R1 within a specified period are exterminated (preyed upon) by a specified number of beneficial insects B1 in the second region R12, and the light of the first wavelength, the light of the second wavelength, and the beneficial insects B1 are adjusted so that some or all of the remaining pest insects H1 are exterminated by the light of the first wavelength.

[0066] The control of the light of the first wavelength includes factors such as the irradiation area, irradiation amount, and irradiation time of the light of the first wavelength, and the control of the light of the second wavelength includes factors such as the irradiation area, irradiation amount, and irradiation time of the light of the second wavelength.

[0067] The pest control system 100 executes the following steps: releasing a predetermined number of beneficial insects B1 into the cultivation area R1, irradiating the first area R11 with light of a first wavelength for a predetermined time, and irradiating the predetermined number of beneficial insects B1 released into the cultivation area R1 and pest insects H1 present outside the second area R12 with light of a second wavelength for a predetermined time to gather them into the second area R12. This allows the crop P1 to be produced without being damaged by the pest insects H1.

[0068] By continuously keeping a predetermined number of beneficial insects B1, it is possible to prevent frequent repetition of pest extermination work, such as when the beneficial insects B1 disappear due to the depletion of pest insects H1 in the cultivation area R, and then the beneficial insects B1 are released again due to the pest insects H1 invading the cultivation area R again.

[0069] Furthermore, since both the pest insects H1 and the beneficial insects B1 are living organisms and it is not possible to completely control how they move, it is difficult to accurately grasp the number of pest insects H1 and the number of beneficial insects B1 present within the cultivation area R1. Furthermore, the number of pest insects H1 invading from outside the cultivation area R1 is not a fixed number, so it is natural to expect that there will be some degree of fluctuation.

[0070] Taking this into consideration, it is possible to periodically release a small number of beneficial insects B1 into the cultivation area R1 to replenish the beneficial insects B1. In this sense, instead of or in addition to suppressing the frequent repetition of pest control work, the number of beneficial insects B1 released for pest control can be reduced. Note that the term "small number of beneficial insects B1" here is a relative expression that indicates that the number of beneficial insects B1 released into the cultivation area R1 is reduced, assuming that a certain number of beneficial insects B1 already released remain in the cultivation area R1.

[0071] The pest control system 100 can retain a predetermined number of beneficial insects B1 for a long period of time. For example, in the pest control system 100, the predetermined number of beneficial insects B1 remain in the cultivation area R1 for at least 20 days or more. Here, the "predetermined number" is a number equal to or less than the number of beneficial insects B1 released in the cultivation area R1. Preferably, the predetermined number of beneficial insects B1 remain in the cultivation area R1 for at least 30 days or more.

[0072] For example, when strawberries are cultivated as the crop P1, the period in which pest insects H1 emerge in Japan is approximately from April to November, making pest control measures necessary for eight months. In this case, it would be ideal to retain a certain number of beneficial insects B1 for eight months, and the pest control system 100 can achieve this by appropriately controlling the first wavelength light, the second wavelength light, and the beneficial insects B1. Note that retaining here can also include the retention of beneficial insects B1 hatched from beneficial insects B1.

[0073] It is preferable to keep the area of ​​the second region R12 as small as possible in the pest control system 100. This is because the second region R12 is an area where pests H1 gather, and therefore can be said to be an area where damage to the crop P1 by the pests H1 is more likely to occur than in the first region R11.

[0074] Furthermore, the position of the second region R12 may be changed over time to prevent pest damage to the crops P1 from being concentrated in a specific location within the cultivation region R1. For example, the position of the second region R12 within the cultivation region R1 may be changed at predetermined intervals (e.g., every other month). The position of the second region R12 can be changed by changing the installation position of the second light source 12.

[0075] The position of the second region R12 may also be determined taking into consideration the harvest time of the crop P1. By not designating the second region R12 as an area where the crop P1 that will be harvested soon is cultivated, the yield can be increased.

[0076] Regarding the harvested crop P1, even if the crop P1 itself shows no signs of pest damage at the time of harvest, shipping may be restricted if pests are discovered during packaging or packing. Therefore, for example, one possible solution is to designate other areas as the second region R12, rather than designating the area to be harvested as the second region R12, starting one week before the planned harvest time. In this case, it is also possible to designate not only the area to be harvested but also nearby areas as the second region R12, but also other areas as the second region R12.

[0077] The second region R12 may be divided into multiple regions (see FIG. 3). If the cultivation region R1 is large, distributing the areas that attract the pest insects H1 and the beneficial insects B1 makes it easier to gather the pest insects H1 in the nearest attraction area.

[0078] The pest control system 100 may also include other components. For example, as shown in FIG. 6, an insect trap C1 for capturing pest insects H1 may be installed. The insect trap C1 may be composed of, for example, an attractant (e.g., bait) for attracting the pest insects H1 and a trapping material (e.g., adhesive tape) for capturing the attracted pest insects H1. Alternatively, for example, the insect trap C1 may be configured to capture insects that approach a fan motor by sucking them into a bag. Alternatively, for example, the insect trap C1 may be configured to have an electric current flowing through it, which gives an electric shock to insects that come into contact with this part, rendering them immobile and allowing them to be captured. The insect trap C1 may also be installed suspended in the air to capture flying pest insects H1, or it may be installed in or near the cultivation area R1. This reduces the number of beneficial insects B1 released into the cultivation area R1.

[0079] 7 and 8, the pest control system 100 may suppress damage to crops P1 caused by pest insects H1 by using insect traps to trap the pest insects H1 instead of using beneficial insects B1 to exterminate the pest insects H1. In this case, the insect traps C1 may be selectively installed in the area (second region R12) where the pest insects H1 are attracted and directly above it. By selectively installing the insect traps C1 instead of concentrating the beneficial insects B1, the pest insects H1 can be effectively exterminated.

[0080] In the pest control system 100, the number of insect traps C1 installed per unit area in the second region R12 may be greater than the number of insect traps C1 installed per unit area in the first region R11. Also, the number of insect traps C1 installed in the second region R12 may be greater than the number of insect traps C1 installed in the first region R11. Regardless of whether the pest control system 100 is equipped with beneficial insects B1 or not, the insect traps C1 can be installed in this manner in relation to the first region R11 and the second region R12.

[0081] In this case, the light of the second wavelength from the second light source 12 serves to attract pest insects H1 to the second region R12. The pest control system 100 also includes at least an insect trap C1 installed in the second region and the region immediately above it. A pest control method that does not require beneficial insects B1 does not affect the effectiveness of pest control depending on the increase or decrease in the number of beneficial insects B1 present in the cultivation region R1, and therefore a pest control system 100 can be realized that can stably maintain the effectiveness of pest control.

[0082] Furthermore, when shipping the crop P1 (including shipping overseas), the presence of insects may be avoided, even if they are beneficial insects B1. Therefore, it may be in the grower's interest to construct a pest control system 100 that reduces the number of beneficial insects B1 released into the cultivation area R1 as much as possible.

[0083] In the pest control system 100, if the number of beneficial insects B1 released into the cultivation area R1 decreases, it may be possible to consider reducing the area of ​​the second area R12 where the beneficial insects B1 gather. If the area of ​​the second area R12 is reduced, the area where insects gather will become smaller relative to the cultivation area R1, and the yield of the crop P1 can be increased.

[0084] In the pest control system 100, the insect traps C1 may be installed only in the second region and the region immediately above it (which may include the vicinity of these regions). In this case, the insect traps C1 do not need to be installed in the first region R1 and the region immediately above it. Reducing the number of installed insect traps C1 is not only economical, but also leads to the construction of a system that minimizes the obstruction of sunlight reaching the crops P1.

[0085] Although the embodiments of the present invention have been described above, the pest control system according to the present invention is not strictly limited to the pest control systems of the embodiments.

[0086] Through the contents described so far in this specification, the following technical matters are disclosed. (Section 1) a plurality of first light sources that irradiate a first region of a cultivation region in which crops are cultivated with light of a first wavelength for suppressing damage to the crops by pests; One or more second light sources that emit light of a second wavelength to gather the pests and beneficial insects for suppressing damage to the crops by the pests in a second area that is a part of the cultivation area and is smaller than the first area; A pest control system. (Section 2) Item 1. The pest control system according to item 1, further comprising a predetermined number of the beneficial insects according to the size of the cultivation area. (Section 3) Item 3. A pest control system according to item 1 or 2, wherein a predetermined number or more of the pests that invade the cultivation area from outside the cultivation area within a predetermined period of time are collected in the second area. (Section 4) The beneficial insects are insects that exterminate the pest insects, Item 3. The pest control system described in Item 2, wherein the number of beneficial insects to be released into the cultivation area is determined so that a certain number or more of the beneficial insects among the predetermined number of beneficial insects released into the cultivation area continuously gather in the second area. (Section 5) Item 5. The pest control system according to any one of items 1 to 4, wherein the area irradiated with the light of the second wavelength by the one or more second light sources is smaller than the area irradiated with the light of the first wavelength by the plurality of first light sources. (Section 6) the first wavelength is equal to or greater than 265 nm and equal to or less than 315 nm, Item 6. The pest control system according to any one of items 1 to 5, wherein the second wavelength is a wavelength of 316 nm or more and 560 nm or less. (Section 7) The insect control system includes a first light source that emits light of a first wavelength, a second light source that emits light of a second wavelength, and a predetermined number or more of beneficial insects, A pest control system that controls the light of the first wavelength that is irradiated onto a first area of ​​a cultivation area in which crops are grown, and the light of the second wavelength that is irradiated onto a second area of ​​the cultivation area in which crops are grown that is smaller than the first area, and adjusts the control so that a certain number of pest insects that invade or occur in the cultivation area within a specified period of time are exterminated by at least the specified number of beneficial insects in the second area, and some or all of the remaining pest insects are exterminated by the light of the first wavelength, thereby continuously allowing at least the specified number of beneficial insects to remain. (Section 8) Item 2 or 7, wherein the predetermined number of beneficial insects remains in the cultivation area for at least 20 days or more. (Section 9) Releasing a predetermined number of beneficial insects into a growing area where a crop is grown; irradiating a first region, which is a part or all of a cultivation region in which crops are cultivated, with light of a first wavelength for a predetermined period of time; and irradiating the cultivation area with light of a second wavelength for a predetermined period of time to gather a predetermined number of beneficial insects released into the cultivation area and pest insects present outside a second area that is smaller than the first area into the second area. [Explanation of symbols]

[0087] 100 Pest Control System 11 1st light source 11A First light-emitting element 11B second light-emitting element 11C Third light-emitting element 12 Second light source 13 Sensors R1 cultivation area R11 1st area R12 2nd area P1 crops H1 Pest B1 Beneficial insects C1 Insect Trap

Claims

1. a plurality of first light sources that irradiate a first region of a cultivation region in which crops are cultivated with light of a first wavelength for suppressing damage to the crops by pests; One or more second light sources that emit light of a second wavelength to gather the pests and beneficial insects for suppressing damage to the crops by the pests in a second area that is a part of the cultivation area and is smaller than the first area; A pest control system.

2. The pest control system according to claim 1 , further comprising a predetermined number of the beneficial insects according to the size of the cultivation area.

3. The pest control system according to claim 2 , wherein a predetermined number or more of the pests that invade the cultivation area from outside the cultivation area within a predetermined period of time are gathered in the second area.

4. The beneficial insects are insects that exterminate the pest insects, The pest control system described in claim 2, wherein the number of beneficial insects to be released into the cultivation area is determined so that a certain number or more of the beneficial insects out of the predetermined number of beneficial insects released into the cultivation area continuously gather in the second area.

5. The pest control system according to claim 1 , wherein an area irradiated with the light of the second wavelength by the one or more second light sources is smaller than an area irradiated with the light of the first wavelength by the plurality of first light sources.

6. the first wavelength is equal to or greater than 265 nm and equal to or less than 315 nm, The pest control system according to claim 1 , wherein the second wavelength is equal to or greater than 316 nm and equal to or less than 560 nm.

7. a first light source that irradiates light of a first wavelength, a second light source that irradiates light of a second wavelength, and a predetermined number or more of beneficial insects; A pest control system that controls the light of the first wavelength that is irradiated onto a first area of ​​a cultivation area in which crops are grown, and the light of the second wavelength that is irradiated onto a second area of ​​the cultivation area in which crops are grown that is smaller than the first area, and adjusts the control so that a certain number of pests that invade or occur in the cultivation area within a specified period of time are exterminated by at least the specified number of beneficial insects in the second area, and some or all of the remaining pest insects are exterminated by the light of the first wavelength, thereby continuously allowing at least the specified number of beneficial insects to remain.

8. The pest control system according to claim 7 , wherein the predetermined number of beneficial insects remain in the cultivation area for at least 20 days or more.

9. Releasing a predetermined number of beneficial insects into a growing area where a crop is grown; irradiating a first region, which is a part or all of a cultivation region in which crops are cultivated, with light of a first wavelength for a predetermined period of time; and irradiating the cultivation area with light of a second wavelength for a predetermined period of time to gather a predetermined number of beneficial insects released into the cultivation area and pest insects present outside a second area smaller than the first area into the second area.

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