Harmonic radar tagging for tracking movement of stink bugs

Harmonic radar tagging is being investigated as a method to monitor movement of stink bugs (Hemiptera: Pentatomidae) in complex agricultural landscapes. Because tag weight and adhesive toxicity limit the use of this technology, initial efforts focused on improving the selection of adhesives and design of harmonic radar tags to reduce impacts on the movement and behavior of stink bugs. Using easily obtainable materials and improvements in construction techniques, tag weights were reduced by 31% over an initial prototype design. Despite prior studies noting the use of an inductive loop to increase range, such inclusions were found to impair stink bug movement. A design consisting of a 6-cm monopole on the anode terminal of a three-contact Schottky barrier diode provided a compromise between unimpaired movement and tracking range, adding an additional 8% to the stink bug’s carrying weight while not significantly reducing walking or flying mobility in the laboratory or field. Future research will examine possible improvements to the harmonic radar transceiver and improvements in the wire antenna to decrease encumbrance.