Real-time Monitoring of Helicoverpa armigera (Hübner) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) Population Fluctuations Using an Intelligent System and Determination of Economic Injury Level in Tomato Fields

Abstract Pest management requires accurate estimation of pest population density, as well as assessment of damages and determination of economic injury level (EIL). The objective of this research is to design and construct a device for monitoring real-time fluctuations in the population of Helicoverpa armigera (Hübner) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) in the field. Another goal is to calculate the EIL based on the conditions in Iran. To compare different methods of monitoring population fluctuations, the cultivated land was divided into three treatments: control, conventional sampling and real time monitoring using an intelligence system. Population fluctuations of H. armigera during the tomato growth season, as monitored by the device, showed that this pest has four generations. The regression analysis indicated a negative significant relationship between crop yield and the density of first instar larvae. The control treatment had the highest percentage of yield loss. Market value of the product at three levels of low, medium, and high, EIL values ranged from 0.33 to 0.49 and 0.24 to 0.46 larvae per plant for the years 2023 and 2024, respectively. Population fluctuations and calculating the EIL for H. armigera can help farmers determine the appropriate timing for control measures and prevent indiscriminate use of pesticides.