Density estimation of Bemisia tabaci (Hemiptera: Aleyrodidae) in a greenhouse using sticky traps in conjunction with an image processing system

Accurate forecasting of pest density is essential for effective pest management. In this study, a simple image processing system that automatically estimated the density of whiteflies on sticky traps was developed. The estimated densities of samples in a laboratory and a greenhouse were in accordance with the actual values. The detection system was especially efficient when the whitefly densities were at medium to high levels, however, the development of identification algorithms and more appropriate collection methods may improve the image processing system. Taken together, the results of this study indicate that the image processing system described here may be useful for evaluating the population dynamics.