Study shows dogs can sniff out laurel wilt-infected avocado trees well in advance.
A study out of Florida International University evaluates the use of scent-discriminating canines for the detection of laurel wilt-affected wood from avocado trees. Julian Mendel, Kenneth G. Furton, and DeEtta Mills have ferreted out a possible solution to a serious issue in one corner of the horticultural industry, and then ascertained the extent to which this solution is effective.
The results of this study are presented in their article “An Evaluation of Scent-discriminating Canines for Rapid Response to Agricultural Diseases” published in the latest issue of HortTechnology.
Laurel wilt disease has resulted in the death of more than 300 million laurel trees in the United States alone. One affected plant is the commercially important avocado tree, the second-largest tree crop in Florida behind citrus. This disease has had a devastating effect on the industry in South Florida in past harvest seasons, and two larger avocado industries in Mexico and California are naturally worried that this disease, if it hits their crops, could spread fast enough to destroy their seasons.
Once affected by laurel wilt disease, trees succumb soon after infection. Once external symptoms are evident, this disease is very difficult to control and contain as the pathogen can spread to adjacent trees via root grafting. Until now, there has been no viable, cost-effective method of early diagnosis and treatment.
Laurel wilt is the consequence of an invasive species—the redbay ambrosia beetle—originally from Asia, which was inadvertently introduced into the United States in untreated wooden packing material.
But as with so many ailments, early detection can be instrumental in deterring a widespread infection. The use of scent-discriminating dogs has shown to offer the avocado industry legitimate signs of hope in their fight against the spread of such a profit-crusher throughout their groves.
Three dogs were trained and studied for their ability to detect the early presence of laurel wilt by scent. At present, canines are extensively used in law enforcement and forensics in the location of missing persons, explosives, drugs, weapons, and ammunition. More directly applicable, dogs have demonstrated the ability to detect invasive species of spotted knapweed, brown tree snakes, desert tortoises, and various cancers.
The highly sensitive canine olfactory system is capable of detecting odor concentrations at exceedingly minute 1 to 2 parts per trillion. The authors believe it likely, with properly directed training, that these dogs could use their natural talents to service the protective needs of the potentially ailing avocado industry.
During the course of the study, 229 trials were performed, and only 12 of those yielded false alerts. It was observed that dogs are indeed capable of high levels of relevant performance, even in harsh weather conditions such as high heat and humidity. The study provided proof that dogs can detect agricultural diseases such as laurel wilt and can be a powerful management tool if the disease is caught in its earliest stages.
About the valuable service provided by these dogs, Mills adds, “It is the best ‘technology’ so far that can detect a diseased tree before external symptoms are visible. The old saying that ‘dogs are man’s best friend’ reaches far beyond a personal bond with their handler and trainer. It is depicted in their excitement every day as they deploy to the groves. Man’s best friend may even help save an industry.”
Learn more: Dogs can detect agricultural diseases early
The Latest on: Scent-discriminating canines
[google_news title=”” keyword=”scent-discriminating canines” num_posts=”10″ blurb_length=”0″ show_thumb=”left”]
via Google News
The Latest on: Scent-discriminating canines
- Harris County Precinct 4 Constable's Office welcomes first scent-discrimination canine, 'Hades'on April 25, 2024 at 4:38 pm
Harris County Precinct 4's new scent-discriminating canine, Hades, can track missing people and criminals, offering hope for families and boosting law enforcement capabilities.
- Harris County Precinct 4 Constable's Office welcomes first scent-discrimination canine, 'Hades'on April 25, 2024 at 4:38 pm
This dog is unique and the first of its kind in the area. His name is Hades. He is a scent-discrimination dog and don’t let his friendliness fool you. He’s trained to track even the toughest ...
- Hawaii Island police renew public plea for help in woman’s disappearanceon April 9, 2024 at 5:00 pm
“Emergency personnel conducted an extensive area search, including police with a scent discriminating canine and the Hawai’i Fire Department’s helicopter; however, Gibson was not located ...
- Hawaii Island police renew call for information in search for missing opihi pickeron April 9, 2024 at 2:05 pm
RELATED: Foul play may be involved in at least 6 missing persons cases on Hawaii Island Emergency personnel conducted an extensive area search, including police with a scent discriminating canine ...
- 30 Ways to Make Your Dog Smarteron April 1, 2024 at 6:58 am
For those dogs that have mastered nose games, it’s time to take it to the next level: scent discrimination. Instead of just one treat hiding, maybe you hide a treat and something else ...
- Dogs can be trained to detect PTSD with their noses - studyon March 29, 2024 at 8:12 am
A Canadian pilot study shows that dogs can be taught to recognize the scent of psychotrauma on ... CO Lab studies since she was two years old: discriminating ketogenic from normal cow breath ...
- Dogs Newson March 21, 2024 at 5:00 pm
Therefore, a ... Nov. 16, 2023 — Many mammals, from domestic cats and dogs to giant pandas, use scent to communicate with each other. A new study shows how domestic cats send signals to each ...
- 21 Dogs That Get Along with Catson March 20, 2024 at 5:00 pm
When it’s the dog’s turn to explore the house, be sure the cat is in a room with the door closed. While you’re in this phase, focus on scent communication. Place a sock or blanket with your ...
- 25 Large Dog Breeds That Make Great Petson March 19, 2024 at 5:00 pm
Like other long-nosed dog breeds, this supersized pup is driven by scent. Bloodhounds are a bit slower to mature than other breeds, which may present a challenge, as they tend to be boisterous and ...
via Bing News