Taxonomy for farmers: Developing mobile tools for in field identification of pests to facilitate IPM

Knowing what pests might be problematic, how to correctly identify pests and their natural enemies, and when and how to scout for these species are crucial aspects of integrated pest management (IPM) of field crops. IPM techniques increase profitability and sustainability through effective and efficient decision making in pest management.  Inaccurate identification of pests, in particular, can lead to unnecessary control measures applied, with undesirable environmental and financial consequences. The recent advent of mobile applications, widespread use of smart phones, and access to cellular internet networks in rural regions now allows for IPM tools and agronomic research to be integrated and delivered in ways not previously conceived. Here we present a mobile IPM tool that facilitates producers and agronomists to accurately identify pests using interactive identification, high resolution images, and field observable characteristics. Once an identification is made, users can access insect information pages focusing on IPM practices. Additionally users can sign up for specific extension alerts and integrate scouting alerts into their mobile calendar. These tools should revolutionize pest management practices and foster sustainable approaches to pest control.