Drone Laser System Targets Colorado Potato Beetle in Europe

Researchers led by Reyntjens are developing a two‑drone system that uses AI‑guided imaging to locate Colorado potato beetles and a second drone equipped with a laser to eliminate the insects. Simulations suggest a hectare could be treated in about 17 minutes, with each beetle killed in roughly 300 ms while sparing beneficial insects and crops.

A field trial in the Dutch village of Valthe has tested the approach, flying a drone at low altitude to capture high‑resolution images every two metres. An AI program maps beetle hotspots, allowing targeted pesticide use and reducing overall spraying. Early results show the beetles concentrate at field edges and the system can reliably identify infestations, though the AI still requires further training. The project seeks financing and industrial partners, collaborating with Belgium’s ILVO and a German optics firm.