© Anthony Cantin Unsplash
CFE Researcher Nuno Capela Presents Groundbreaking Study on Asian Hornet Flight Sounds on BBC
Nuno Capela, a researcher at the Centre for Functional Ecology (CFE) and the TERRA Associate Laboratory, was recently interviewed by the BBC to present a groundbreaking study on the flight sounds of the Asian hornet. This research is gaining attention for employing a simple yet effective technology to help monitor and control the spread of this invasive species, which poses an increasing threat to biodiversity and agriculture.
Using a basic microphone and audio processing techniques, Nuno Capela’s team developed an algorithm capable of automatically distinguishing the flight sounds of bees from those of Asian hornets. This technical advancement is crucial, as it enables the detection of Asian hornet presence without the need for direct visual observation—a particularly valuable feature in remote or difficult-to-access areas.
The Asian hornet is an invasive species that has caused considerable damage to beekeeping and biodiversity in various parts of Europe, including Portugal. The algorithm developed by Capela’s team can function as an early warning system, assisting authorities in identifying high-risk areas and implementing preventive measures to curb the hornet’s spread.
This system is especially relevant for countries like the United Kingdom, where the Asian hornet has not yet become fully established, but its presence is increasing. The species could potentially impact bee populations, which are vital for pollination and agriculture. The ability to differentiate between bee and hornet sounds could thus become an effective tool in environmental monitoring and management.
The work by Nuno Capela and his team also underscores the importance of integrating emerging technologies into environmental problem-solving. The use of acoustic sensors to detect and monitor invasive species represents an innovative approach that can be applied across various fields of biology and ecology.
Capela took the opportunity to thank Professor Martin Bencsik, one of the key minds behind the study, emphasizing his critical contribution to the algorithm’s development. Collaboration between researchers at CFE and TERRA has been essential to the project’s success, marking a significant advancement in the application of digital technologies to environmental management.
The full interview with Nuno Capela is available on BBC World Radio, where the researcher discusses the study, the technology involved, and the potential impacts of the algorithm in combating the spread of the Asian hornet. Listen to the interview at the following link:
Partilhe esta notícia:
Share this news: