Using synthetic semiochemicals to train canines to detect bark beetle-infested trees

摘要: In this proof of concept study, we report the off season training two detection dogs on a series synthetic semiochemicals associated with Ips typographus pest bark beetle infestations spruce trees. Scent allowed to discriminate between physiologically-relevant infestation (target) odours, quantified by GC-MS using extracted ion chromatogram be bio-active at levels <10-4 ng/15 min or lower, and natural non-target odours that might encountered in forest. Detection trained recognize four different pheromone compounds winter time, well before flight, were able detect infested trees unknown humans following summer. The an tree from first hour attack until several weeks after attack. Trained appear more efficient than detecting early because canines ability cover greater area olfaction far distance can humans. Infested could detected out 100 m.