We rear native and exotic insect pests and their natural predators, and provide a series of structures and tools for the study of their biology, physiology and behavior.
Thanks to 3 containment levels, it offers work environments equipped with appropriate safety measures to prevent the escape of the organisms housed in the structure.
Climatic chambers
Three air-conditioned rooms (2.5 x 4.1 m) located in the quarantine facility. Temperature, humidity and photoperiod can be managed remotely through the FEM network.
Climatic cabinets
To simulate time periods at specific conditions of light, temperature and humidity. For each period It is possible to program the cyclicality, the duration and the transitions
Electroantennography
Two setups: 1) gas chromatography coupled electroanthennography (GC-EAD) and 2) recording electrical responses from single sensilla or nerve cells (SCR).
Volatile extraction
Complete setups for the extraction of volatile organic compounds by means of static or dynamic headspace collection or by means of solid phase microextraction (SPME)
Olfactometers
Different olfactometer models to perform behavioral bioassays by testing the effect of odorous substances (e.g. attractants, repellents) on various species of insects
Wind tunnel
Equipped with a flow regulator, an automatic injection system for volatile compounds and neon lamps to reproduce various light conditions (e.g. daytime, twilight)
Services
Entomological production
Live insect supply service for individuals, companies and other research institutes. See tariff list for available species
Exotic insects release risk assessment
Study of ecology, biology and risk assesment associated to the release of exotic insect species for biocontrol
Applications
Biocontrol
Biological control of insect pests through the use of natural enemies (predators and parasitoids) in classical, augmentative and/or habitat management strategies.
Ecology
Risk assessment on the ecosystems associated to the accidental or intentional introduction of exotic insect species.
This Unit focuses on crop protection to decrease reliance on pesticides and improve well-being and the land-based economy with the development of innovative and sustainable agricultural practices.
