2012 - kiaai.ae · the lens documents man’s memory with the blessed tree nahayan mabarak...

THE LENS DOCUMENTS MAN’S MEMORY WITH THE BLESSED TREE

NAHAYAN MABARAK PATRONIZES THE OPENING OF THE EXHIBITION

OF THE DISTINGUISHED AND WINNING WORKS

COMPETITION “DATE PALM THROUGH THE EYES OF THE WORLD”

ARISH: PALM-LEAF ARCHITECTURE

PUBLISHED BY KHALIFA INTERNATIONAL DATE

PALM AWARD

Volume No. 4, Issue No. 01, March 2012 KHALIFA INTERNATIONAL DATE PALM AWARDالمجـلد الـرابــع ، العـدد 01 ، مارس )آذار( 2012 جـائـزة خـليفــة الــدوليــة لنـخيــل التـمــر

نواجت تقليم النخيل

قاعدة مادية للمنتجات ال�صناعية

ومواد البناء

العـد�صــة تـوثــق

ذاكرة الإن�صان مع ال�صجرة املباركة

نهيان مبارك يرعى افتتاح

معر�ض ال�صـور الفائـزة واملتميزة

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KHALIFA INTERNATIONAL DATE PALM AWARDHONORING THE WINNERS OF THE FOURTH SESSION 2012

جائـزة خليفـة الدوليـة لنخيل التمر

تكرم الفائزين بالدورة الرابعة 2012

Phtograph by : Hamama Bind Masoud Khalfan Al Kindya - Sultanate Of OmanPhtograph by : Samenath Mukhopadhyah - India

تعلن األمانة العامة لجائزة خليفة الدولية لنخيل التمر

عن بدء استالم طلبات ترشيح الدورة الخامسة 2013

وفق البرنامج التاليتقديم طلبات الترشيح: 1 يونيو ــ 30 أكتوبر 2012

إعالن أسماء الفائزين: فبراير 2013حفل تكريم الفائزين: مارس 2013

فئات الجائزة في مجال زراعة النخيل وإنتاج التمور

باإلضافة إلى درع تذكاري وشهادة تقدير.

فئة الشخصية المتميزة

فئة أفضل مشروع تنموي

فئة أفضل تقنيةمتميزة

فئة المنتجين المتميزين

فئة البحوث والدراسات المتميزة

الفائز األول 300.000 درهم




لفائز األول 300.000 درهم

ــــــ الفائز الثاني 200.000 درهم

الفائز الثاني 200.000 درهم



لمزيد من المعلومات، يرجى االتصال - األمانة العامة لجائزة خليفة الدولية لنخيل التمر صندوق البريد 82872 العين ـ اإلمارات العربية المتحدة هــاتف 7832434 3 971 + فاكس 7832550 3 971 +

www.kidpa.ae الموقع االلكتروني [email protected] البريد االلكتروني

الى كل الباحثين والمختصين والمنتجينوالمزارعيـن ومحبـي شجـرة نخيــل التمـــر

www.kidpa.ae

الــدورة الخامسة

2013

هادة تقدير ش

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باال

First Winner

$ 5000ل

الفــائــز األو

Second Winner

$ 4000ي

الفــائــز الثـان

Third Winner

$ 3000ث

الفــائــز الثــالـW

ith a trophy & a certificate

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النسخة الرابعة 2013

FOURTH SESSION 2013

يصوير الفوتوغراف

سابقة دولية للتم

نحترفي

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غاية 31 / 12 / 2012 - تن 01 / 07 / 2012 ول

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INTERNATIONAL PHOTOGRAPHY COMPETITION

Participation open from 01/07/2012 to 31/12/2012

Results will be announced during February, 2013

سمبر 2012كة : 31 دي

شارد للم

خر موعآ

Deadline for participation : December 31, 2012

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Out of the keen interest of Khalifa International Date Palm Award Secretariat General to spread the awareness and specialized knowledge in date palm industry across the world.

Therefore, we invite all academics, specialist researchers, producers and date palm (the blessed tree) lovers to participate in either languages Arabic or English in related matters and issues to date palm such as (cultivation, disease prevention, maintenance, food processing, marketing, ...) materials should satisfy publication criteria set out in the magazine.

We value and appreciate your good efforts made to serve the blessed tree.

Materials are to be sent to Head of Media Committee and editor-in-chief via email address:

Invitation to Researches, writers and interested Scientists

[email protected]

W ith the success achieved at the regional and international levels, UAE reaffirms its pioneering role in caring for the date palm tree and those involved in date palm cultivation and

date production under the wise leadership of UAE President, His Highness Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan (God protects him), and support of H.H. General Sheikh Mohammad Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, and the directives of H.H. Sheikh Mansour Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Presidential Affairs.

The first five years of the award has proved that we are on the right path in terms of international participation or number of entries in various Award categories. Twenty five countries participated in the fourth edition compared to 18 in the first One. The number of UAE farmers and date producers who participated in the award categories increased remarkably by 68 percent.

These achievements enhance the Award’s success at the local, regional and international levels, and we can say that what the Secretariat of Khalifa International Date Palm Award has provided so far is only the first step in the right direction towards excellence aimed by the nation. In the next stage, we will spare no efforts for further success as per the Award Strategic Plan to support the date palm tree, dates producers and manufacturers, as well as researchers and academics, scientific research centres, the relevant associations and the blessed tree enthusiasts.

Nahyan Mabarak Al Nahyan

Minister of Higher Education and Scientific ResearchChairman of Khalifa International Date Palm Award Board of Trustees

A New Stage

Our Tree

U ndoubtedly, the strategic action plan prepared by the Secretariat of Khalifa International Date Palm Award has proved successful during the past five years at the local, regional and international

levels thanks to the guidance and support of H.H. Sheikh Nahayan Mabarak Al Nahayan, Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research, Chairman of the Board of Trustees.

H.H. highlighted the importance of inviting all layers of the local community including farmers and producers and the blessed tree enthusiasts to participate in the Award’s five categories to help them acquire skills and experience which enable them to participate in international competitions.

The Award’s Secretariat prepared a technical action plan which included a national campaign covering various relevant events throughout the Country, including the capital Abu Dhabi, the western region and the northern emirates. The number of participants in various categories increased remarkably. Around 194 candidates representing 25 countries from all over the world took part in the fourth edition 2012. The increase of UAE candidates date palm growers was 68%, while the increase from other countries was 32% compared with the previous edition.

The increased number of entries received by the Secretariat General in the fourth edition reflects the big confidence in the Khalifa International Date Palm Award and its outstanding presence in various scientific, production centres and institutions.

Enabling Farmers

Our Messege

Dr. Abdelouahhab ZaidSecretary General of Khalifa International Date Palm Award

Editor in Chief

Publication criteria in the magazine1. The Articles should be new, dedicated

particularly to the Award’s magazine, and have not published before.

2. Articles are to be in a soft copy, whether in Arabic or English, and should be supported by specialized sources and references at the end.

3. Researches and studies should be accompanied by the required scientific photographs of high quality (digital / high resolution).

4. Articles and photographs are to be submitted to the magazine by e-mail, or to be sent to the Award’s P.O. Box on a CD with a typed and printed hard copy.

5. The magazine is not obliged to return the articles back, whether published or not, to the participants.

6. A writer of an article should enclose a personal photo with his CV including the full name, phone number, email and P.O. Box, in addition to the bank account number in English (Name, Name of the Bank, Account Number and Swift Code) in order to allow sending him the due amount in case the article is published, in compliance with the Magazine’s financial system.

7. All Articles in the magazine necessarily reflect the views of their respective authors and do not oblige Khalifa International Date Palm Award.

8. Scientific subjects in the magazine are arranged according to technical considerations.

9. The Magazine welcomes readers from all the date palm lovers around the world, who contribute in deepening the knowledge and building a sustainable society.

Scientific Supervision Board

Prof. Ghaleb AlhadramiDean’s Office, College of Food and

Agriculture, UAE University

Dr.Helal Humaid Saad Al KaabiDirector of Gardens & Recreation

Facilities Div. Southern Region

Dr. Hassan ShabanaDate Palm Global Network

Magazine CorrespondencesAll technical and scientific materials are

to be addressed to the Head of the Media Committee, Editorial Manager,

on the following address:P.O. Box 42781, Abu Dhabi, UAE

Mobile No. 0097150 6979645 [email protected]

www.kidpa.ae

The Blessed TreeA seasonal scientific magazine

specialized in date palms

Published byKhalifa International Date Palm Award

National Media Council PermitNo. 1/107006/29505

ISBN978-9948-15-335-1

Volume No. 04 , Issue No. 01Rabia 2 - 1433 / March 2012

Honorary Chairman

H.E. Sheikh Nahayan Mabarak Al Nahayan

Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research Chairman of

the Award Board of Trustees

General Coordinator Dr. Abdelouahhab ZaidAward Secretary General

Editorial ManagerEng. Emad Saad

Head of Media Committee [email protected]

Legal DirectorDr. Helal Humaid Saad Al Kaabi

Proof ReaderMr. Mahmoud Badr

PhotographyJack Jabour, Nezar Ballout

Amjad Dourgham

Design, Layout and Printing

P.O. Box 111047, Abu Dhabi, U A E Tel. 00971 2 6333970 Fax: 00971 2 6333756

[email protected] www.finelinead.ae

All issues of the Blessed Tree magazine are available on

KIDPA website: www.kidpa.ae

Date Palm Biotechnology 16

Effect of Ethrel and Temperature on the Storability of Zahdi Date Fruit 20

Efficiency and Longevity of Food Baits in Palm Weevil Traps 28

The Early Detection of Red Palm Weevil A New Method 35

The Montreal Protocol and the Methyl Bromide Phase Out in the Dates’ Sector 44

UAE Standards of Palm Dates and its Products as a Main Item of Small Enterprises 52

Implementation of a Demonstration Project on alternatives to Methyl Bromide for the treatment of high moisture dates (Algeria and Tunisia): the UNIDO’s experience 61

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The Lens documents Man’s Memory with the Blessed Tree

Khalifa International Date Palm Award announces the winners of its fourth session 2012

09

Enhancing the National Participation to Introduce the Award

12

Arish: Palm-Leaf Architecture

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Nahayan Mabarak Honors Winners on March 11

Khalifa International Date Palm Award announces the winners of its fourth session 2012

the people who are interested in it around the world.

In a press conference, held on Wednesday, February 15, 2012, at the Emirates Palace in Abu Dhabi, His Excellency Dr. Abdelouahhab Zaid, Secretary General of the Khalifa International Date Palm Award, announced the Award winners in its fourth session, in the presence of Dr. Helal Humaid Saed Al Kaabi, Member of the Award Board of Trustees and Chairman of the Financial and Administrative Committee.

«We are proud of the high level that the Award has achieved in its fourth session thanks to the confidence and directives of Sheikh Nahayan Mabarak Al Nahayan, Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research,

Sheikh Nahayan Mabarak Al Nahayan, Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research, and Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Khalifa International Date Palm Award, expressed his appreciation for the Award royal care of the wise leadership of His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, UAE President, and the support of General Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi, Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, and Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister, and Minister of Presidential Affairs, which helped the Award gain its leading position at the Arab and international levels, and contributed to strengthening the UAE’s pioneering role in caring for the blessed tree and

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Chairman of the Board of Trustees of Khalifa International Date Palm Award,” Dr. Zaid said.

Based on the report of the Scientific Committee and arbitration of entries for the five award categories and the approval of Sheikh Nahayan Mabarak, the results are as follows:

Distinguished Personality:

Winner: Dr. Ahmed Mohammed Saif Al Falasi – UAE

Best Development Project:

First Winner: Improved Date Palm Nutrition Programme - Abu Dhabi Farmers’ Services Center / ADFSC – ADFCA – UAE.

Second Winner: Project Development and Sustainability of Al Ain Oasis – Department of Municipal Affairs – Al Ain Municipality – UAE.

Best New Technique:

First Winner: An image based system for automatic dates sorting / Mr. Dieffal Abdelhamid / Algeria.

Second Winner: Contribution of Zeolite Soil Conditioner in Continuous Holding of Irrigation Water and Increasing Yield of Dates / Dr. Nazir

Hussain / Ministry of Environment – Qatar.

Distinguished Producer:

First Winner: Was Withheld.

Second Winner: Model farm for the date palm / Equally between Mr. Hamad Ali Salman Al Mazroui and Mr. Salman Ali Mansour Mohammed Al Mazroui – UAE.

Distinguished Research and study:

First Winner: Development of 1000 Microsatellite Markers across the Date Palm (Phoenix dactylifera L.)Genome / International Center for Agricultural Research in the Dry Areas (ICARDA) – Syria.

Second Winner: Antioxidant and Estrogen Like Activity of the Seed of Phoenix dactylifera L. Palm Growing in Egyptian Oases / Dr. Sahar Yusuf Mohamed Al Aqabey – Egypt.

Nahayan Mabarak:

Khalifa’s support enhances the award

regionally and internationally

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The first winner shall receive an amount of Dh300,000 and a shield and certificate of appreciation, while the second winner gets Dh200,000 with a shield and certificate of appreciation during a grand ceremony which will be held at the Emirates Palace on Sunday, March 11, 2012.

The Award in numbersDr. Helal Humaid Saed Al Kaabi, Member of Award Board of Trustees and Chairman of the Award Financial and Administrative Committee, said that that this session was characterized by several key points such as the increase of national candidates that reached 68%, and from the rest of the world was 32%, compared to the previous session.

All categories have remarkably increased as follows:

Distinguished Personality Category has increased 44%

Best Development Project Category has increased 40%

Best New Technique Category has increased 37%

Distinguished Research and study Category has increased 27%

Distinguished Producer Category has increased 17%

Entries from the Arab countries have recorded an increase of 30%, while from the rest of the world it reached 46%.

Dr. Al Kaabi presented a summary of the main achievements of the Award Secretariat during the fourth session 2012, which included:

A silver coin of 50 Dirham bearing the Award logo and the image of the UAE President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the patron of the Award, was issued on the 5th

Award anniversary in collaboration with the UAE Central Bank.

The Award Annual Book in its third session was issued. It included all activities and events which have been implemented according to the Award Strategic Plan.

Issuing the Award Winners Book for the past three sessions (2009, 2010, 2011), allowing researchers and professionals to learn about the content of the winning researches in order to disseminate scientific knowledge on the date palm.

Issuing “Building with Palm Leaves” book in English. It is the first scientific book in the field which is considered one component of the palm date, documenting its use in building heritage houses in the pre-oil stage. The book was written by the British researcher Sandra biesik.

Participation in the second international dates meeting in Morocco in November 2011, where the Award Stand visited by His Majesty King Mohammed VI, who commended cooperation between the two countries in the field of date palm cultivation and production.

Presented a paper in the International Palm Research Conference in the capital Algeria, November 2011, as part

of the Award Awareness Campaign in the Arab countries.

Launch the National Award Awareness Campaign in the State in cooperation with Farmers Services Centre in Abu Dhabi. Two meetings were held with the palm farmers in Abu Dhabi and in Liwa in the Western Region. This campaign resulted in the increase of the local entries by 68%.

Issuing the third volume which includes four issues of the Blessed Tree magazine, the first scientific journal specializing in the Palm in the Arab countries. The magazine has proven successful and contributed to enhancing the specialized scientific media in the Emirates

Dr. Zaid highlighted the support of Sheikh Mubarak to achieve the Award objectives and enhance the leading role of the UAE to develop the palm scientific research, and encourage the date palm sector including the researchers, farmers, producers and exporters, as well as specialized institutions and associations and to recognize personalities involved in Palm, at the local, regional and international levels.

It is worth mentioning that the Award recognition ceremony will be held on Sunday March 11, 2012, at (10:00 am) at the Emirates Palace in Abu Dhabi.

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The Lens documents Man’s Memory with the Blessed Tree

the Cultural Center in Abu Dhabi. The opening was in the presence of Dr. Abdullah Saad Al Khanbashi, UAEU Vice Chancellor, Dr. Abdelouahhab Zaid, the Secretary General of the Award, Dr. Helal Humaid Saad Al Kaabi, member of the Board of Trustees and Chairman of the Administrative & Financial Committee of the Award, Abdullah Salem Al Amri, Director of Culture & Arts Dept at Abu Dhabi Authority for Culture & Heritage, Waleed Al Zaabi, Director

Under the patronage of H.H. Sheikh Nahayan Mabarak Al Nahayan, Minister of Higher Education & Scientific Research, Chairperson of the Board of Trustees of Khalifa International Date Palm Award, the Secretariat General of the Award opened yesterday the Exhibition of the Distinguished and winning works in the International Competition of photographing the palm tree (The Palm Tree in the Eyes of the World), in its third version 2012 at the hall of

Nahayan Mabarak Patronizes the Opening of the Exhibition of the Distinguished and Winning WorksCompetition “Date Palm through the eyes of the world”

A Competition Organized by Khalifa

International Date Palm Award

in Cooperation with Abu Dhabi

International Association for

Photography

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800 Photos compete for

the love of the Palm tree

in the Eyes of Photographers

of Heritage & Arts Department at the Ministry of Culture, Youth & Community Development and the winners in the competition with a crowd of the palm tree lovers and armature photographers in the UAE and the region.

the Secretary General of the Award made a tour in the exhibition examining the distinguished and winning works and the technical aspects followed in documenting the relationship between man and the blessed tree through the eyes and cameras of world photographers. After that the Secretariat General of the Award honored the first three winners

In the first rank comes Ahmed Salem Salman Al Kindi, while in the second

comes Yousef Ahmed Husein Al Khamees, but the third rank was the share of Moza Al Falasi. In its third version, the competition witnessed sharp competition among 789 photos, taken by 166 professional and amateur photographers representing 20 countries all over the world.

On his part, Dr. Abdelouahhab Zaid, The Secretary General of the Award, affirmed after the opening ceremony that this competition receives the special care, attention and appreciation of H.H. Sheikh Nahayan Mabarak Al Nahayan, Minister of Higher Education & Scientific Research, Chairperson of the Board of Trustees of Khalifa International Date Palm Award for the role of the

lens in documenting man’s memory with the blessed tree in all countries of the world. The competition is trying to authenticate the relationship between man and the components of his environment particularly the date palm tree. He hailed the unlimited support of H.H. the Minister of Higher Education & Scientific Research for the blessed tree by employing the art of photography as a means to develop the audience awareness for the importance of the palm tree so as to create an ample space for exchanging expertise among photographers (amateur and professional) from all parts of the world and to show out the tourist, environmental and heritage elements of the Date Palm tree through the photograph on the one

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hand and encouraging man’s ties with the land and agriculture on the other.

The Secretary General expressed his happiness in the unlimited love and high appreciation he watched in the eyes of the palm tree photographers all over the world, in addition to the large number of participants in the competition second version. He highly appreciated the efforts exerted by the participating professional and amateur photographers.

On his part, Abdullah Salem Al Amri, Director of Culture & Arts Department at Abu Dhabi Authority for Culture and Heritage, expressed his esteem of the great success achieved by the competition in its third version 2012. He said “Undoubtedfully this session is the most successful and most mature in respect of the frequent successes which are attained by the palm tree in the public life of the local community in the UAE at all levels”. He expressed as well his appreciation and thanks to the General Secretariat of Khalifa International Date Palm Award for undertaking such initiative which reflects their respect to the palm tree and enhances the role of the

photographer’s lens in enriching the memory of the country, reviving its national heritage and in supporting the programs of sustainable programs with all of their dimensions.

Dr. Abdelouahhab Zaid the Award General Director directed his thanks and appreciation to the Ministry of Culture, Youth & Community Development for its support and care of the exhibition by providing the National Theatre to display the distinguished and winning works in the competition. Thanks were directed as well to Abu Dhabi

Authority for Culture & Heritage, Abu Dhabi International Association for Photography, and to the Judgment Committee which did its best and dealt accurately and transparently with all the participating photos. He congratulated the winners and hailed the importance of this international competition to photograph the palm tree where the competition promptly took an advanced position among photography international competitions as far as the entities which represent it and the great efforts exerted to make it successful.

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Khalifa International for Date Palm Award Participatesin the 2nd Agricultural Exhibition – Al Ain 2012

Enhancing the National Participation to Introduce the Award

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General Secretariat started last year pursuant to the directives of H.H. Sheikh Nahayan Mabaral Al Nahayan, Minister of Higher Education & Scientific Research, Chairman of the Board of Trustees. The said campaign resulted in a remarkable increase in the number of national participants since the percentage increase reached to 68% in comparison with the last session. This was reflected in an increase in the number of national winners this year.

However, the Award will go on in its efforts to increase and help the national farmers, producers, and lovers of the date palm tree to submit their applications to the Award categories, noting herein that many of them have the technical and technological qualifications to compete at the international level.

Moreover, the participation of the

The General Secretariat of Khalifa International Date Palm Award enhanced its presence before the specialized agricultural audience and lovers of the date palm tree by participating in the Second Agricultural Exhibition to be held in Al Ain . The Exhibition is organized by Abu Dhabi Food Control Authority during the period between 22-25 February 2012 and aims at introducing the Award categories and encouraging farmers and producers to participate in the Award Fifth Session 2013. Registration for the above session will start by the beginning of June to end of October 2012.

On this occasion, Dr. Abdelouahhab Zaid, the General Secretary of the award referred in a press release that this participation comes under the national campaign to introduce the Award categories which the

The national campaign to

introduce the Award categories contributed

in increasing the percentage

of national candidates to 68%

Award in the above mentioned exhibition comes within the framework of enhancing the sense of belonging and participation on the part of farmers and date producers when they meet with one another to exchange ideas and expertise and to provide technical and logistic support so as to consolidate the culture and love of the above tree to contribute in building up sustainable community.

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Published by Khalifa International Date Palm Award

Arish: Palm-Leaf Architecture

Under the patronage of H.H. Sheikh Nahayan Mabarak Al Nahayan, Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research, Chairperson of the Board of Trustees of Khalifa Award, the General Secretariat published the first book in English entitled “Palm

Leaves Architecture” by the researcher Sandra Piesik. The book was published by Thames & Hudson Publishing House. The book talks about the role of the palm tree in the history of the UAE and the region and the heritage of their people in different areas of

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life. Further, the book is the first of its kind, and it goes so deep in the Palm Leaves Architecture which as such are considered among the basic parts, though disappeared, of the history and heritage of the UAE.

Dr. Abdelouahhab Zaid, the General Secretary of the Award asserted that the book is a translation to the instructions of H.H. Sheikh Nahayan Mabarak Al Nahayan, Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research, Chairperson of the Board of Trustees of Khalifa Award and come in response to the goals of the Award to spread the culture of loving the palm tree and transferring the specialized scientific knowledge of the blessed tree to all specialists and interested people all over the world.

The book focuses on the role of date palm trees and their leaves in constructing simple houses which provided shelter from the severe and harsh climate in the Arabian Peninsula for many decades.

These buildings are considered one of the few shapes of the vegetarian life in such hot and sandy conditions where the palm leaves were used creatively and innovatively to find structures suitable for living and which resisted climate conditions and remained with generations for a long time. With the introduction of the modern and western architecture and the trend to build skyscrapers in the Gulf Region, many of the local and traditional methods of building disappeared against the spread of urban building.

As bamboo is considered a main component of Asian building so are date palm leaves which occupy the heart of heritage of the UAE and the neighboring countries in the region. This book, which is the result of a three –year research program, presents a panorama about the architecture date palm leaves, its history and traditions.

The book consists of three sections: An overview with historical photos, a comparison between the regional variations in the UAE, focus on the architectural details and the artistic method in building, modern uses of

the date palm leaves architecture, a special section for references and resources including a gradual introduction to the making of arbor (Arich) from the main substances and the shape of the building as well.

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been recognized as the “tree of life” because of its inte-gration in human settlement, wellbeing, and food security in hot and barren parts of the world, where only a few plant species can flourish. Date palm trees continue to provide the most sustainable agro-ecosystems in harsh dry environments providing raw materials for housing, furnishings, and many handcrafts

Shri Mohan Jain • Jameel M. Al-Khayri Dennis V . Johnson

ISBN 978-94-007-1317-8 e-ISBN 978-94-007-1318-5

DOI 10.1007/978-94-007-1318-5 Springer Dordrecht Heidelberg

London New York

Date palm (Phoenix dactylifera L.) is a dioecious fruit tree native to the hot arid regions of the world, mainly grown in the Middle East, and North Africa. Through germplasm exchange, date palm agriculture has expanded to Australia, Southern Africa, South America, Mexico and the United States of America. Since ancient time this majestic plant has

Date Palm Biotechnology

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in addition to supply-ing nutritious delicious fruits that can be consumed fresh, dried, or processed, pro-viding a nutritious source of sugars, minerals, and vitamins. Economically, date palm provides a major source of income for local farmers and associated industries in communities where it is grown. Expansion of date palm agriculture is faced with challenges stemming from propagation and genetic improvement limitations. The heterozygous nature of this dioecious species hampers the use of seeds which produce off type seedlings, and normally are not used to propagate known elite cultivars. The limited availability of offshoots and the difficulties of establishing propogules from offshoots render this traditional propagation method inadequate, particularly for large-scale propagation. Based on recent advances in plant tissue culture, micropropagation technique has been developed for the rapid mass propagation of date palm. Some limitations asso-ciated with genetic improvement have been circumvented by taking advantage of tissue culture applications and molecular methodologies. Overall, this book discusses the major developments in date palm biotechnology during the last few decades highlighting genetics and germplasm, tissue culture meth-odologies and applications, genetic engineering, genomics, and molecular techniques. The book contains an introductory chapter: Date palm biotechnology from theory to practice that gives a plausible background for the 33 review chapters which highlight current research status relevant to various aspects of date palm biotechnology. The book is divided in five parts. Part I discusses the research development, methodology,

and commercial application of micropropagation in seven chapters: Potential of date palm

micropropagation for improving small farming systems; Date palm tissue cul-ture: a pathway to rural development; Date palm micropropagation via somatic embryogenesis; Date palm micropropagation via organogenesis; Micropropagation of date palm using inflorescence explants; Bioreactors and automation in date palm micropropagation; Commercial date palm tissue culture procedures and facility establishment. Somaclonal variation is quite common in micropropagated plants occurring spontaneously in many plant species, but can be controlled by in vitro culture prac-tices. However, it can be extremely useful to select somaclones exhibiting desirable traits like enhanced tolerance to biotic or abiotic stress agents. In fact, scientists often resort to mutagens to induce mutations to gain a broader genetic pool for more efficient in vitro selection. The maintenance of genetic fidelity of in vitro plantlets is highly desirable and that can be achieved by phenotypic characterizations, which is quite slow; however, molecular techniques are reliable to identify somaclones rapidly. In this book, Part II deals with the research development and applications of somaclonal variation and mutation in date palm, covered in seven chapters: Somaclonal variation in date palm; Growth abnormalities associated with micro-propagation of date palm; Molecular detection of somaclonal variation in date palm; In vitro selection for abiotic stress in date palm; Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. albedinis toxins characterization and use for selection of resistant date palm to Bayoud disease; Radiation induced mutations for date palm improvement; Magnetic field induced biochemical and growth changes in date palm seedlings. Genetic diversity of date palm is threatened by human development and reduction of suitable arable lands, in addition to ecosystem

changes, monoculture, and biotic invasions. Successful utilization of date palm genetic resources requires characterization and preservation of date palm germplasm biodiversity using various conservation methods based on in situ and ex situ collections. Date palm field gene banks are difficult to maintain and the storage of offshoots under biocontrolled environment is impracticable. Seed conservation is not viable due to genetic heterozygosity. To augment traditional conservation methods, in vitro technologies have been applied in date palm. Molecular techniques to characterize date palm germ-plasm biodiversity are modern tools that have proved useful. The status of date palm germplasm and current techniques employed in conservation and molecular characterization are described in seven chapters in Part III of this book: Date palm germ-plasm; In vitro conservation of date palm germplasm; Molecular markers in date palm; Biodiversity in date palm: molecular markers as indicators; Polymorphism and genetic relationship in date palm using molecular markers; Date palm genome project at the kingdom of Saudi Arabia; Potential of arbuscular mycorrhizal tech-nology in date palm production. Plant tissue culture techniques offer several tools to plant breeders based on an understanding of genetic principles. For instants, embryo rescue, in vitro fertilization, in vitro flowering, somatic hybridization. An obstacle of date palm breeding is sex identification of offsprings since first flowering requires at least 3 years. Molecular technologies can effectively identify sex at early growth stages vii Preface

and produce molecular markers which can drastically reduce breeding cycles. Genetic improvement is necessary to enhance the resistance

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to numerous date palm diseases and insects, improve yield and fruit quality, and increase tolerance to abiotic stresses. However, traditional breeding methods are inapplicable due to inherently slow growth nature and the long generation time of the date palm. Genetic engineering has proved invaluable to genetically improve many plant species. Although in its infancy, date palm genetic transformation and genomic studies to identify genes coding for useful traits are witnessing great interests. Part IV of this book contains eight chapters addressing research progress made in these areas: Date palm genetics and breeding; Development of new Moroccan selected date palm varieties resistant to Bayoud and of good fruit quality; Molecular markers for genetic diversity and Bayoud disease resistance in date palm; Towards sex determination of date palm; Interspecific hybridization and embryo rescue in date palm; In vitro flowering of date palm; Date palm cell and protoplast culture; Transgenic date palm. The potential of producing secondary metabolites, enhancing date utilization and the possibility of producing biofuels from date palm-associated microorganisms paves the way to industrial biotechnological applications. Part V of this book describes up-to-date related progress made in three chapters: Secondary metabolites of date palm; Industrial biotechnology: date palm fruit applications; Date palm as a source of bioethanol producing microorganisms. It is evident that biotechnology has significantly influenced date palm agriculture. Although research in date palm biotechnology is relatively limited, achievements accumulated thus far have inspired us to collect this valuable information under one cover to provide an updated source for beginners in the field of date palm biotechnology as well as

a reliable reference for specialists. This book is beneficial to students, researchers, scientists, commercial producers, consultants, and policy makers interested in agriculture or plant science particularly in date palm biotechnology. It is highly recommended for plant biotechnology courses especially in date palm biotechnology graduate courses and

training. The chapters in this book were

authored and reviewed by prominent

specialists demonstrating distinct

research contributions to date palm

biotechnology, invited from industry,

universities, and research institutes.

Their contribution to the quality of

this book is gratefully acknowledged.

Chapter 8: Commercial Date Palm Tissue Culture Procedures and Facility Establishment

Zaid, B. El-Korchi, and H.J. Visser

Abstract: Tissue culture techniques are commonly used for the purpose of mass vegetative propagation in many plant species. Important aspects of in vitro techniques are mainly the nature of plant material, suitable nutrient media composition, controlled growth conditions and maintaining strict aseptic conditions. Tissue culture provides a means for rapid mass clonal propagation of desired cultivars, and a mechanism for somatic hybridization and in vitro selection of novel genotypes. The need for date palm tissue culture came about because offshoots that are traditionally used for propagation cannot satisfy the urgent needs for large quantities of planting material. Several laboratories worldwide initiated in vitro propagation of date palm using either organogenesis or somatic embryogenesis techniques. This chapter includes a description of in vitro regeneration of date palm through the organogenesis pathway with a detailed guideline to establish a commercial plant tissue culture facility suitable for mass propagation of various plant species including date palm. Procedures including the source of explants material, disinfection, initiation, multi-plication media and incubation conditions are well detailed. The focus made by the authors is on the laboratory initial establishment and nature of needed equipment and supplies. The quality control aspect is also well detailed along with the required safety measures. The establishment implementation plan and estimated budget of both the laboratory and the greenhouses are also presented.

Keywords Acclimatization • In vitro • Micropropagation • Somatic embryogenesis

A. Zaid (*) • B. El-Korchi • H.J. Visser Date Palm Research and Development Unit, Plant Tissue Culture Laboratory, United Arab Emirates University, 81908, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates. e-mail: [email protected]

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Effect of Ethrel and Temperature on the Storability of Zahdi Date Fruit

20

Effect of Ethrel and Temperature on the Storability of Zahdi Date FruitAbstractThe objective of this study is to determine the effect of etherl at 1000 ppm on the storability of matured Zahdi date fruit at +3ºC, 0ºC, and -3ºC and 80% R.H. Treated and untreated fruits were left attached to the strands and stored for six months. Results have indicated that; ethrel enhanced significantly fruits ripening percentage, whilst untreated fruits showed slow rate of change in both physical and chemical characteristics until the fourth month of storage. Regardless of etherl treatment, storing fruit at 0ºC or -3ºC preserved their quality only for two months period. These results could facilitate Rutab marketing schedule, especially off season production. Subsequently, uniform maturity and high quality of Rutab can be obtained with relatively low cost.

IntroductionZahdi variety is one of the most important Date palm cultivars in Iraq; it’s grown in central part. It comprises 78% of the total date production in the country (Al-Baya., 1988). Date fruit passes through five stages of development, i.e. Hababuk, Kimri, Khalal, Rutab and Tamar. Zahdi fruits are usually harvested at the Tamer stage (Dawson, and Aten. 1962). A new technique has been developed in Iraq to store Zahdi date fruits attached to their strands at the Rutab stage. Zahdi fruit has strong attachment force by their strands (Mawloud et.al., 1989). It also has been concluded that the ripening of date palm fruits is climacteric where sudden increases in ethylene production occur when the fruit changes from Khalal to Tamar stages stored at -3ºC and 75-85% relative humidity (Abdalatif, 1989).

Esam A. MawloudDate palm production expert

Esam A. MawloudResearcher

Blessed Tree - March 2012

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Under such storage conditions, fruits maintain their high quality and they become available at times out of their normal ripening season.

Many researchers have indicated that per harvest application of ethrel or ethephone (2 –chloro ethyl phosphonic acid) induced early ripening and hastened color development of date fruit (Al-Khafaji et.al., 1988). Post harvest application by dipping Khadrawi date fruits at Rutab stage in ethephone at 1000, 2000 and 4000 ppm for 5-10 minutes enhanced the fruit ripening. Furthermore, it was pointed out, that applications of ethrel treatment had accelerated maturity and improved fruit quality (Mawloud, 2002 and Ibrahim & Mawloud., 1889)

Yektankhodaei et.al, (2006) found promising results by using high temperature combined with some chemicals to ripen Khuneizi date fruit in Iran.

The present study was undertaken:

1- To investigate the effect of ethrel and temperature on ripening, uniformity, and quality of Zahdi date fruit at Rutab stage.

2- To regulate marketing time of Rutab fruits out of their season.

Materials and MethodsThis study was carried out at a private processing plant at Baghdad, Iraq by cooperation with General State Board of Date palm (GBDP) during 2010 and 2011. Mature date fruits cv. Zahdi, at the late Khalal or at the beginning of Rubtab stage, were obtained from Kerbala governorate- Central Iraq (Mawloud et.al., 1989). Selected fruits that are uniform in shape and appearance and are free of infection were left attached to their strands. Fruits samples were divided into two groups: the first one was dipped for

two minutes in ethrel at 1000 ppm, whereas the second group was dipped in tap water as control treatment. Both groups were dried by air blower and packed in 2 Kg. capacity carton boxes. All boxes were pre-cooled at 8-10ºC. Thirty boxes from each group were stored at the following three different temperatures; +3ºC, 0ºC, and -3ºC where the relative humidity was maintained at 85%. The experiment was set in a Complete Randomized Block Design and the final data at the end of each treatment were analyzed as factorial (Snedecore. 1965).

The following physical and chemical characteristics were monitored weekly and monthly from the first of October, 2010 until the end of storage period on the first week of the next April, 2011.

1- Ripening percentage measured when soft spots appeared on the fruits.

2- The attachment force and shrinkage percentage were determined by counting the numbers of abscessed and/ or shrinkage fruits for each treatment and the percentage were calculated.

3- Total soluble solids measured by Abbe refract meter.

4- Total sugars were determined on fresh weight basis according to Berlin method (A.O.A.C. 1985).

5- Water content %: Ten grams of fruits were dried in a vacuum oven at 65-75ºC for 48 hrs and the percentage was calculated.

6- Sensory evaluation of each sample was conducted to evaluate appearance, color, taste, odor, and fruit deterioration.

ResultsThe physical and chemical

characteristics changes of treated and untreated Zahdi date at -3ºC,

0ºC and +3ºC were studied from the beginning to the end of the course as follows:

1- Ripening %Dipping date fruit in ethrel at 1000 ppm had increased the ripening percentage during the first three months of storage at the three temperatures, +3ºC, 0ºC, and -3ºC. While the untreated fruits reached to similar percentage after the fourth month of storage at the three temperatures of study (Fig 1).

2- Attachment force %The attachment force is considered as a favorable character in selecting date cultivars for Rutab cold storage. Zahdi date fruit is characterized by having strong attachment force. The untreated fruit stored at 0ºC or -3ºC showed a tendency to maintain this force to the end of study. However, ethrel treatments reduced the attachment force percentage after three months at +3ºC or after 5 months at 0ºC and -3ºC. (Fig 2)

3-Shrinkage %Shrinkage was delayed when fruits were stored at 0ºC or at -3ºC. However, storage at +3ºC accelerated this percentage after two months. Furthermore, ethrel treatment continued to increase shrinkage % at +3ºC gradually throughout the storage period as compared with the other treatments (Fig 3)

4- Total soluble solids % and total sugars %Ethrel tended to increase sharply the total soluble solids % after two months as compared with the untreated fruits. Generally, the total soluble solids % increased steadily of treated and


22

untreated fruits until the termination of experiments. (Fig 4)

The total sugars % of untreated fruits at +3ºC and 0ºC were increased gradually during the whole storage period. Ethrel treatment had increased appreciably the total sugars percentage after two months from storage time at all studied temperatures. Moreover, storage at -3ºC increased the total sugars % after the third month of storage for the untreated fruits (Fig 5).

5-Water contents %The water contents of treated and untreated fruits decreased through the storage period, but the rate of decrement was related to the storage factors; temperature and ethrel at 1000 ppm. In this regard, the untreated fruits lost high percentage of water content at +3ºC, while date fruits stored at 0ºC and -3ºC lost water content less than other testaments. However, the loss of water content was very high when the fruits were treated with ethrel at 1000 ppm and the temperature storage was +3ºC. (Fig 6)

Analysis of date fruit attributes at the end of storage periodThe statistical analysis of the two factors; ethrel and temperature as well as their interaction was carried out at the end of storage period of each treatment as shown in table 1.

1-Ripening%The study of ripening % of treated and untreated fruits with ethrel at 1000 ppm found significant differences at 5 % level with least significant differences (LSD) at the end of storage period in hastening date fruits. However, the three temperatures under study; +3ºC, 0ºC,

0

20

40

60

80

100

120

1 2 3 4 5 6Storage period/Months

Rip

enin

ing

%

E+3ºC

C+3ºC

E 0ºC

C 0ºC

E -3ºC

C -3ºC

0

20

40

60

80

100

1 2 3 4 5 6storage period/ Month

atta

chm

ent f

orce

% E+3ºC

C+3ºC

E+3ºC

C+3ºC

0

20

40

60

80

100

1 2 3 4 5 6storage period/ Month

atta

chm

ent f

orce

%

Where: E is ethrel at 1000 ppm, and C is controlFig 1: Effect of different treatments on the ripening % of Zahdi date fruits

Where: E is ethrel at 1000 ppm, and C is control Fig 2: The effect of ethrel and temperature on the attachment force% of Zahdi fruits.


23

and -3ºC and their interactions with ethrel treatment gave insignificant differences.

2-Attachment force%Even though Zahdi CV. is known to have a high attachment force, ethrel treatment increased the abscission of fruits significantly at 5% level (L.S.D). Moreover, the statistical analysis at the same level indicated that storage of date fruits at +3ºC also increased the abscission of date fruits significantly. At the same time the temperatures -3ºC and 0ºC retain the attachment force of date fruit. The interaction at -3ºC and 0ºC with ethrel subsequently maintain the fruits attachment to their strands significantly. (Fig8)

3-Shrinkage%:The statistical analysis at 5% level of L.S.D showed that the two factors; ethrel and temperature at +3ºC increased significantly the percentage of shrinkage. On the other hand, the other two temperatures; -3ºC, and 0ºC and their interactions with ethrel treatment at 1000ppm decreased shrinkage percentage significantly at the same level of statistical analysis (Fig 9).

4- TSS%, total sugars%, and water content%The studied attributes; total soluble solids %, total sugars %, and water content % of treated and untreated fruits with ethrel at 1000 ppm and +3ºC of storage gave insignificant different at 5% level with least significant differences (LSD) at the end of storage period . Also, the statistical analysis showed no significant differences for the three studying temperatures; +3ºC, 0ºC, and -3ºC and their interactions with ethrel treatment at 1000 ppm. (Table 2)

5- Sensory

Where: E is ethrel at 1000 ppm, and C is controlFig 3: The effect of ethrel and temperature on shrinkage % of Zahdi fruits.

Where: E is ethrel at 1000 ppm, and C is controlFig 4: The effect of ethrel and temperature on TSS% and total sugars% of Zahdi fruits.

Where: E is ethrel at 1000 ppm, and C is controlFig 5: The effect of ethrel and temperature on the total sugars% of Zahdi fruits.

0

5

10

15

20

25

1 2 3 4 5 6Storage period/Month

Shrin

kage

%

E+3ºC

C+3ºC

E 0ºC

C 0ºC

E -3ºC

C -3ºC

0

20

40

60

80

100


Tota

l sol

ubl s

olid

s % E+3ºC

C+3ºC

E 0ºC

C 0ºC

E -3ºC

C -3ºC

01020304050607080


Tota

l sug

ars

%

E+3ºC

C+3ºC

E 0ºC

C 0ºC

E -3ºC

C -3ºC


24

characteristicsOther characteristics such as appearance, color, taste, odor, and deterioration are considered as quality attributes for consumer attraction. Treatment with ethrel at 3ºC maintained the desired fruit quality for first three months of storage. However, such treated fruit stored at 0ºC or -3ºC retained their bright yellow color, normal taste, and odor until the fifth month of storage. Deterioration of ethrel treated fruits

Where: E is ethrel at 1000 ppm, and C is controlFig 6: The effect of ethrel and temperature on water content % of Zahdi fruits.

Table 1: Treatments, storage period, and Analysis time

Treatments Storage period Analysis time

Ethrel+3°C October to January January

Ethrel 0°C October to February February

Ethrel-3°C October to February February

Control+3°C December to February February

Control 0°C December to March March

Control-3°C December to March March

E+3ºC

C+3ºC

E 0ºC

C 0ºC

E -3ºC

C -3ºC05

1015202530354045


Wat

er c

onte

nt %

varied from high at -3ºC to medium at 0ºC during the last month. On the other hand, untreated fruits kept their quality at 3ºC until the end of storage period. Generally Rutab stored at 0ºC, and -3ºC had a higher degree of edibility and palatability until the fifth month (Table 3)

Discussion and ConclusionEthrel application enhanced the rate of ripening at the early period of

storage. This might be in part due to release of ethylene from the treated fruits. This is in agreement with those of (Ibrahim, and Mawloud1989), where they found that dipped fruit in ethrel has a tendency to ripe more rapidly. Moreover, treated fruits with ethrel had higher TSS and total sugars. This may be due to the accelerating effect of ethrel on the rate of ripening. These results agree with those of (Mawloud., 2002, Ibrahim and Mawloud, 1989 and El-Hammady et.al., 1982), who reported that date fruit treated with ethephone contained higher amount of TSS and total sugars. However, since ripening is a result of enzymatic action (Maier. and Metzler, 1962), its rate should be lower at temperature (0º and 3ºC) than at +3ºC. Generally, low temperature delayed ripening; this delay might be due to the enzymatic action which is known to be retarded at low temperature (Maier. and Metzler, 1961).

Ethrel treatment increased the percentage of abscessed fruits. Once again ethylene gas might cause an increase in the endogenous ABA which is responsible of fruit abscission. However, the abscission phenomenon was not noticeable at low temperature. The onset of shrinkage occurred after two months in fruits stored at +3ºC as compared with 0ºC or -3ºC. This might be the result of the excessive moisture loss. Since low temperature induced ability of the fruit to maintain higher water content, therefore, storing date fruits at Rutab stage would increase their weight which will have possible economic effect. Generally it could be concluded that applying ethrel at khalal stage can regulate the uniformity of ripening and retain the quality of Rutab at temperatures between 0ºC and -3ºC. Storing Rutab at 0ºC is more feasible than at -3ºC and from the cost point of view, storage at 0º C can be recommended for Zahdi


25

Rutab. Which summarizes the possible schedules for the utilization of the Zahdi fruits (Rutab stage) stored at different temperatures and ethrel treatment. The histogram shows the period through which the stored fruit maintain their desired quality. Thus it will allow the selection of treatments that are economical and desirable. For example, the following treatment could be selected: ethrel at +3ºC, ethrel at 0º C, untreated fruits at +3ºC, and at 0º C. From preceding results, we can suggest that future research should emphasize on economic feasibility of the different methods which have been developed to regulate Rutab storage project.

ReferencesAbd-Elatif, S.A., 1989, Physiological Study on the Ripening of Date Fruit, M.Sc. Thesis, Agriculture College, Baghdad University, Baghdad, Iraq.

Al-Baya, T.H., 1988, Economic Analysis of Date Production in Iraq, M.Sc. Thesis, Agriculture College of Baghdad University, Baghdad, Iraq.

Al-Khafaji, M.A, Mawloud, E.A and Al-Juboori, K.H., 1988, Effect of Ethrel on Uniform, Maturity and Some Chemical Characteristics of Maktoom Date Fruits, Symposium of Propagation and of Date Palm, United Arab Emirates, Alain.

A.O.A.C. 1984, Official Methods of Analysis 14th edition, Association of Official Analytical Chemists, Washington D.C.

Dawson, V.H.W. and Aten, A., 1962, Handling, Processing, and Packing, FAO Agricultural development No.27.

El-Hammady, A.M., El-Nabawy, S.M., Mari, N.S. and Bondak, A.Z., 1982, Effect of Ethephone Post Harvest Application on Bentisha Date Fruits Ripening, First Symposium of Date Palm, King Faisal University.

Where: C is control. Values with same letter not significant differencesFig 7: The effect of ethrel at 1000 ppm (E), temperature (T), and their interaction on the ripening% of Zahdi fruits.

Where: C is control .Values with same letter not significant differencesFig 8: The effect of ethrel at 1000 ppm (E), temperature (T), and their interaction on the attachment force% of Zahdi fruits.

T+3ºCaT 0ºCaT - 3ºCa

E 0ºCaE + 3ºCa

C + 3ºCaE + 3ºCa

C 0ºCa

C - 3ºCa

E aC b

86.5

87

87.5

88

88.5

89

89.5

90

90.5

91

Ripe

ning %

Treatments

T+3ºCaT 0ºCbT - 3ºCb

E 0ºCbE +3ºCa

C + 3ºCcE +3ºCb

C 0ºCd

C - 3ºCd

E aC b

75

80

85

90

95

100

Attac

hem

ent fo

rce %

Treatments

Where: C is control. Values with same letter not significant differencesFig 9: The effect of ethrel at 1000 ppm (E), temperature (T), and their interaction on the shrinkage% of Zahdi fruits.

0

5

10

15

20

25

Shrin

kage

%

Treatments

E aC bT+3ºCaT 0ºCbT-3ºCbE+3ºCaE 0ºCbE+3ºCbC+3ºCcC 0ºCbC-3ºCb


26

Ibrahim, T.K., and Mawloud E.A., 1989.

The Influence of Storage Temperature

and Artificial Ripening on Storage

Ability of Date Fruits Khadrawi, Date

Pal. J. Baghdad, Iraq.

Mair, V.P., and Metzler, D.M., 1962,

Enzymatic Action Soften Dates, Agri.

Res. Wash., 11(3):15.

Mawloud, E.A. 2002, Ripening of

Date Fruits as Affected by Etephone,

Technical report .W.Q Date palm

research station. Sultanate of Oman

Mawloud, E.A., Hammod, H.H., and

Salih, E., 1989, Storability of Date Fruit

Zahdi CV. for Three Different Iraqi

Regions of Cultivation, 5th Scientific

Conference, The Research Council.

Metzler, D.M., 1961, Sucrose Inversion

in Deglet Noor Dates and It’s

Processing Application, Date Growers

Institute, 38: 6-9.

Snedecore, G.W., and Cochran, W.G.,

1972, Statistical Methods 6th edition,

Iowa State University Press Amer.

Iowa U.S.A.

Yektankhodaei, M., Bagheri, A.,

Mohamadpour, I., and Karami, Y.A.,

2006, Artificial Ripening of Khuneizi

Using Physical and Chemical Methods,

Proceedings of the IIIrd International

Date Palm Conference, 87-93, Abu-

Dhabi, UAE.

Where: C is C control. Values with same letter not significant differences Table 2: The effect of ethrel at 1000 ppm (E), and temperatures (T) on TSS%, total sugars%, and water content %

Treatments TSS % Total sugars % Water content %

E 76a 74a 22a

C 75a 73a 23a

T+3°C 74a 72a 23a

T 0°C 75a 73a 22a

T-3°C 74a 73a 22a

E+3°C 74a 72a 23a

E 0°C 75a 73a 22a

E+3°C 74a 73a 22a

C+3°C 73a 72a 22a

C 0°C 73a 72a 22a

C-3°C 74a 73a 22a

Fig 10 : The Effect of Different Storage Period and Ethrel at 1000pmm on Rutab Schedule

Feb.Jan.Nov.Oct. Dec. Mar. Apr.

Ethrel -3ºC

Control 0ºC

Control+3ºC

Ethrel+3ºC

Ethrel 0ºC

Ethrel+3ºC

Storage period


27

Table 3: Effect of Ethrel at 1000 ppm and temperature on some date fruit characteristics during storage period

Storage period(month)

Temperature°C Appearance color Taste Odor Deterioration

1st

Eth +3°C

Control +3°C

Eth 0°C

Control 0°C

Eth-3°C

Control-3°C

Excellent

Excellent

Excellent

Excellent

Excellent

Excellent

Normal

Normal

Normal

Normal

Normal

Normal

Normal

Normal

Normal

Normal

Normal

Normal

Normal

Normal

Normal

Normal

Normal

Normal

Non

Non

Non

Non

Non

Non

2nd

Eth +3°C

Control +3°C

Eth 0°C

Control 0°C

Eth -3°C

Control -3°C

Very good

Excellent

Excellent

Excellent

Excellent

Excellent

Y.B

Normal

Y.B

Normal

Y.B

Normal

Normal

Normal

Normal

Normal

Normal

Normal

Normal

Normal

Normal

Normal

Normal

Normal

Non

Non

Non

Non

Non

Non

3rd

Eth +3°C

Control +3°C

Eth 0°C

Control 0°C

Eth -3°C

Control -3°C

Very good

Excellent

Excellent

Excellent

Excellent

Excellent

Y.B

Normal

Y.B

Normal

Y.B

Normal

Normal

Normal

Normal

Normal

Normal

Normal

Normal

Normal

Normal

Normal

Normal

Normal

Light

Non

Non

Non

Non

Non

4th

Eth +3 ºC

Control +3°C

Eth 0°C

Control 0°C

Eth -3°C

Control -3°C

Good

Excellent

Very good

Excellent

Very good

Excellent

Y.B

Normal

Y.B

Normal

Y.B

Normal

Fermented

Normal

Normal

Normal

Normal

Normal

Abnormal

Normal

Normal

Normal

Normal

Normal

Light

Non

Non

Non

Non

Non

5th

Eth +3°C

Control +3°C

Eth 0°C

Control 0°C

Eth -3°C

Control -3°C

Good

Very good

Very good

Excellent

Very good

Excellent

D.B

Y.B

Y.B

Normal

Y.B

Normal

Fermented

Normal

Normal

Normal

Normal

Normal

Abnormal

Normal

Normal

Normal

Normal

Normal

Light

Light

Light

Non

Non

Non

6th

Eth +3°C

Control +3°C

Eth 0°C

Control 0°C

Eth -3°C

Control -3°C

Good

Very good

Very good

Excellent

Very good

Excellent

D.B

Y.B

D.B

Normal

D.B

Normal

Fermented

Normal

Fermented

Normal

Fermented

Normal

Abnormal

Normal

Abnormal

Normal

Abnormal

Normal

Sever

Medium

Medium

Light

Light

Light

Where; Y.B Yellow brown and D.B Dull brown

Effciency and onneeity of Food Baits in alm eeeil Traps

28

Efficiency and Longevity of Food Baits in Palm Weevil Traps

Abstract Pheromone trapping of RPW is an effective method to manage populations of this palm pest. Current pheromone lures last for 2 to 5 months depending on the season, but the necessary food component lasts only for a week or two. Water evaporation and loss of attractancy are the two main problems with the food component. This paper will present work done on a related species Rhynchophorus palmarm aimed at making the food component of the trap more attractive as well as adding ingredients to the trap to extend the field life of the food. Emission of ethyl acetate from dispensers in pheromone/food traps increases captures compared to pheromone/food traps by 2-5X. Addition of propylene glycol to traps extends the effective life of food in traps. What has not been effective

in the field to date is the substitution of attractive blends that attempt to replace food.

Keywords: Rhynchophorus ferrugineus, Rhynchophorus palmarum, pheromone, kairomone, trapping.

Introduction Rhynchophorus palmarum is managed in Central and South America without insecticide spray by pheromone trapping and sanitation practices in oil, coconut and palmito palm. Since it is a strong flyer traps are normally placed at densities of 1 trap per 3 to 7 hectare (Chinchilla et al., 1993). This density of traps removes > 80% of weevils during one year (Chinchilla et al., 1993). Traps are plastic containers tied to palms at chest height and are baited with the male-produced aggregation pheromone and insecticide treated sugarcane or palm

A. C. OehlschlagerChemTica Internacional,

Apdo. 159-2150, San Jose, Costa Rica

[email protected]


29

pieces (Oehlschlager et al., 1993a). Decomposition and desiccation of food bait decreases attraction to traps so food bait is replaced every 2-3 weeks in most trapping programs. Pheromone and kairomone lures are replaced at 3-4 month intervals.

This paper summarizes studies undertaken to decrease decomposition and desiccation of food bait in R. palmarum traps. In the early 1990’s an initial trial demonstrated that addition of ethyl acetate to pheromone/sugarcane baited traps increased capture of R. palmarum (Jaffe et al., 1993). We repeated this work in extensive trials in the mid 1990’s and confirmed that emission of ethyl acetate from pheromone/sugarcane baited traps increased captures of R. palmarum by 50-100% (Chinchilla and Oehlschlager, Unpublished). This experiment was repeated for R. ferrugineus in the UAE in 1997 with spectacular success. In the UAE emission of ethyl acetate from pheromone / food baited traps increased capture of R. ferrugineus by 2.6X. In 1998 an Egyptian test revealed that emission of ethyl acetate increased capture of R. ferrugineus in pheromone/ sugarcane baited traps by 5X (Oehlschlager, 1998).

Materials and Methods The initial experiments sought to determine the effect of emission of ethyl acetate from pheromone-sugarcane traps (Jaffe et al., 1993). In this test (Figure 1) we examined addition of ethyl acetate or ethyl acetate:ethanol (1:1) to pheromone-sugarcane traps. A complete random block design was used. In Costa Rica traps were 20 liter white plastic buckets with 4 openings (5 X 8 cm) near the top. Traps were hung on coconut palms in a 50 ha mature coconut plantation in which about 20% of all trees were removed prior

to the experiment. Traps were 1.5 meters above ground at 50 meter intervals with no trap closer than 25 meters from any border. All traps contained pheromone lures emitting ~ 3 mg of 6-methylhept-2-en-4-ol, the aggregation pheromone of R. palmarum (Oehlschlager et al., 1992). All traps also contained 5 halved pieces of 20 cm long sugarcane pre-immersed in 1% Lannate (S-methyl-N-[(methylcarbamoyl) oxy] thioacetimidate) solution for 5 minutes prior to addition of traps. Ethyl acetate was released from plastic bottles with restrictive orifices at 200-400 mg/day. Ethyl acetate-ethanol (1:1) was released from capillary devices at 200-400 mg/day such that the two components were released at a constant ratio. Insects were collected and removed weekly at which time treatment positions were re-randomized. The UAE experiment (Figure 2) was conducted in a mature date palm plantation of about 3 ha using 12 liter traps with molded rough surface on the exterior (Emirates Overseas Group, Abu Dhabi) and 4 5 cm X 8 cm square openings in the sides near the top of each trap. Traps were buried in the ground to the level of the entry holes. Traps were baited with Ferrolure + 700 mg lures which emitted 3-10 mg of 4-methyl-5-nonanol and 4-methyl-5-nonanone (9:1), about 50 g of mashed date fruit in 2-3 liters of water and an ethyl acetate dispenser that consisted of a membrane through which the ethyl acetate evaporated at 200-400 mg/day. The experiment in Egypt was conducted in a mature date palm plantation using 12 liter bucket traps that had the outer surface covered with palm mat and were placed on the ground. Bucket traps had 4 entry holes of approximately 5 cm X 9 cm in the sides near the top. Traps were baited with the same pheromone and ethyl acetate dispensers used in the

UAE but contained about 50 g of bigas covered with molasses and about 1 liter of water containing 1-3% Lannate.

The insecticide vs no insecticide experiment (Figure 4) was conducted in Costa Rica in the same 50 ha coconut plantation as used above and employed the same traps, positioning and spacing of traps, pheromone dispensers, food bait and insecticide as described for the experiment in Figure 1.

Experiments in Figure 5, 6 and 7 were conducted in the same 50 hectares of commercial coconut palm in Costa Rica. Traps were 12 liter white plastic buckets with four 5 cm X 10 cm slots in the sides near the top. Pheromone and kairomone lures were hung from the bottom side of lids. Traps were strapped to the palms at 1.5 meters above ground 100 meters apart and 50 meters from any border. Traps contained commercial pheromone lures (ChemTica, Rhyncolure, 750 mg, release rate 3-5 mg/day) and where sugarcane is indicated contained 5 pieces of 20 cm long halved sugarcane. Ethanol was released from membrane lures at 50 mg/day and ethyl acetate (Weevil Magnet) was released from membrane lures at 200-400 mg/day) unless otherwise specified. Traps were left in place for a minimum of 1 week at which time insects were counted and removed. In the case of trap longevity studies no water or other additives were replaced during the course of an experiment. Analysis of capture data was by SYSTAT 9. Means were tested for significant differences by Bonferonni t-test, P > 0.95.

The experiment (Figure 5) that examined blend H as reported by Rochat et al., 2000 as a replacement for sugarcane in pheromone-sugarcane traps was conducted as follows. Blend H is reported to be composed of 28 volatile components


30

in ethyl acetate:ethanol (1:1). The blend was constructed according to Rochat et al., 2000 of (volume%) ethyl acetate (400), ethanol (400, absolute), acetaldehyde (5), methanol (1), acetic acid (7, 90% aqueous solution), isopentanol (5), 2-methylbutanol (1), ethyl propionate (5), propyl acetate (5), isobutyl acetate (13), ethyl butyrate (5), isobutyl propionate (1), ethyl isovalerate (1), isoamyl acetate (5), acetoin (44, dimer), 2,3-butanediol (18, mixture of stereoisomers), 2-hexanone (9), 2-heptanone (2), ethyl 3,3-dimethylacrylate (2), ethyl tiglate (2), phenol (9), alpha-phellandrene (2, > 90%), guaiacol (9), 2-nonanone (4), 2-phenylethanol (13), menthone (1, > 90%), ethyl octanoate (1) and ethyl decanoate (1). Ethyl acetate, ethanol, methanol and acetic acid were purchased locally. Ethyl octanoate and ethyl decanoate were prepared from ethanol and the corresponding alkyl acid. All other chemicals were purchased and used as obtained from Aldrich Chemical Company, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA. The composition of blend H verified by gas chromatography/mass spectroscopy using a Hewlett Packard 6890 gas chromatograph linked to a MS 5973 mass selective detector. Chromatographic separation was on a DB-5 column (30 m X 0.25 mm; 0.25 micrometer; J & W Scientific, Folsom, California, USA) that was temperature programmed at 70oC for 4 min., increased to 230oC at 10oC/min and finally held at this temperature for 10 min. Helium was used as the carrier gas at 0.7 mL/min. Analysis of the blend prior to and after field use revealed the relative concentrations of components unchanged within an experimental error of 2% relative to initial values. Release of blend H was via a capillary device calibrated to release 1,500 mg/day as reported by Rochat et al., 2000. The device allowed evaporation of all components in the ratio in which

they were in the original blend. Ethyl acetate and ethyl acetate:ethanol lures released 1,500 mg/day. Pheromone lures were as above. Control traps contained a pheromone lure and 10 pieces of halved 20 cm long sugarcane stalk on a 3 cm bed of polyurethane chips (Rochat et al., 2000) to which was added 500 ml 1% Lannate solution. Other treatments contained a pheromone lure, a 6 cm bed of polyurethane chips saturated with 1 liter of 1% Lannate solution (chips were wetted thoroughly with Lannate solution) and a lure containing either ethyl acetate:ethanol, ethyl acetate or blend H. Lures were hung from inside the lid of traps. Insects were collected at day 3, 6, 9, 12, 16, and 20 of the trial. At each collection 500 mL of water was added to each trap.

Results and Discussion The initial experiment (Figure 1) examined the ability of ethyl acetate to increase captures of R. palmarum to pheromone / sugarcane baited traps. This was based on a report that the emission of an unspecified amount of ethyl acetate from pheromone/ sugarcane traps increased capture rates (Jaffe et al., 1993). The use of ethyl acetate in pheromone-sugarcane traps has not been adopted in trapping R. palmarum in Central and

South America since these reports and we sought to clarify the benefit derived from the addition of this additional attractant to the standard pheromone-sugarcane traps.

We also included in this experiment an ethyl acetate/ethanol combination. This was based on a report that a combination of these two potential attractants improved captures of R. palmarum to pheromone-sugarcane traps (Rochat et al., 2000).

Figure 1. Rhynchophorus palmarum Capture in Pheromone and Sugarcane

Baited Traps Additionally Emitting Ethyl Acetate and Ethanol. Test conducted using traps made from 20 liter white plastic buckets with four 5 X 8 cm slots near the top for insect entry. One liter 1% Lannate was added to each trap at start of test and 500 mL after the first week. Treatments were fresh sugarcane and ethyl acetate:ethanol lure; fresh sugarcane and ethyl acetate lure; fresh sugarcane and ethanol lure or fresh sugarcane (control). Weevils were counted and removed after first week at which time trap positions rerandomized. Test was conducted for 3 weeks. ANOVA (n = 20) revealed no significant differences between treatments.

In this experiment while no significant difference was found between captures in pheromone/sugarcane baited traps and traps baited with pheromone/sugarcane and emitting either ethyl acetate or ethyl acetate and ethanol there was a numerical difference. Experiments with related curculionidae (Metamasius hemipterus, Perez et al., 1996) have revealed that ethyl acetate is a potent synergist for pheromone/sugarcane baited traps.

Similar experiments were conducted in Egypt and the United Arab Emirates to examine the effect of emitting ethyl acetate from ground level traps baited with pheromone (Ferrolure+) and food on the capture of R. ferrugineus. In the UAE emission of ethyl acetate from pheromone/food traps significantly increased (2.6X) attraction of R. ferrugineus (Experiment by Aswar and Oehlschlager, Oehlschlager, 1998, Figure 2). In Egypt emission of ethyl acetate to pheromone/food traps increased captures of R. ferrugineus by 5X. (Oehlschlager, 1998, Figure 2).

Figure 2. Capture of R. ferrugineus in UAE and Egypt in Pheromone and Food Traps Additionally Emitting


31

Figures Means followed by different letters are significantly different. Additional support for the benefit of emitting ethyl acetate from traps containing Ferrolure+ and date fruit has been obtained in Oman by Abdullah and Al-Khatri (2005, Figure 3).

Figure 3. Capture of R. ferrugineus in Pheromone and Date Bits Baited Traps Additionally Emitting Ethyl Acetate in Oman (Adullah and Khatri, 2005). Experiment conducted using ground traps. Some palm weevil trapping programs have recommended the use of traps without insecticide. We examined the efficiency of pheromone/food baited traps containing insecticide vs those without insecticide. In Figure 4, it is obvious that addition of as little as 0.25% Lannate to pheromone/food baited traps acts to retain arriving R. palmarum. In this experiment we found 10 R. palmarum in traps without insecticide. Of these 7,

Figure 4. Capture of R. palmarum in Bucket Traps Baited With Pheromone, Sugarcane, Ethyl Acetate:Ethanol (1:1) and Insecticide. Insecticide was 1 liter of 0.25% Lannate or 1 liter of water with no Lannate. ANOVA (n = 12-13) gave df = 1, 23 F = 15.07. Means topped by different letter are significantly different by Bonferonni t-test, P > 0.95. were alive suggesting that without insecticide R. palmarum still enter the traps but leave. This result is in agreement with weevil retention studies in which we demonstrated that without insecticide > 90% R. palmarum escaped from a 20 liter plastic bucket after 24 hrs (Oehlschlager et al., 1993b).

In the beginning part of this decade an elegant study sought to determine if the food component of palm weevil traps could be replaced by the chemical components that were responsible for the attraction generated by the fermenting food in palm weevil

0 2 4

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Ethanol

Ethyl Acetate : Ethanol

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R. palmarum / Trap / Week

R. ferrugineus / Trap / Week

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Ferrolure

0 5 1

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UAE 1997, n =

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R. ferrugineus / Trap / Week

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Fig. 1

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Ferrolure + + Date Bits

Ferrolure + + Ethyl Acetate

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Mean R. ferrugineus / Trap / 5 Months

2.4X

Ethyl Acetate. UAE (Aswar and Oehlschlager) experiment conducted using date bits (~50 g) as food component. Egyptian experiment (G. Moawad and Y. El Sebay, PPRI,

Cairo) conducted using bigas and molasses with insecticide as food bait. ANOVA on both experiments revealed significant differences between treatments, Bonferonni t-test, P > 0.95.


32

traps. In this study the antennally active common components of several highly attractive foods were chemically identified and then mixtures of these components were tested as a substitute for sugarcane in pheromone traps targeting R. palmarum. In the most promising of these experiments it was reported that a mixture of 28 components released in combination with ethyl acetate and ethanol was as effective as sugarcane in synergizing attraction of R. palmarum to pheromone-baited traps (Rochat et al., 2000). If this report is correct then trap servicing would be greatly simplified.

The original trapping of R. palmarum in traps baited with pheromone, blend H and containing Lannate laced water were conducted in South America and showed that captures to traps baited in this way were as attractive as traps baited with pheromone, sugarcane and Lannate laced water. When we repeated these experiments in Costa Rica with much attention to detail we obtained the results in Figure 5. Clearly blend H is not as attractive as sugarcane and in our experiments appeared to be repellent relative to ethyl acetate and ethyl acetate:ethanol. What is noteworthy in this study is that in week 3 traps baited with pheromone, ethyl acetate:ethanol and containing Lannate laced water were as attracxtive as traps containing pheromone, sugarcane and Lannate laced water. This indicates that for R. palmarum ethyl acetate\:ethanol is beneficial in those situations where frequent servicing is not possible.

Figure 5. Capture of R. palmarum in Bucket Traps Baited with Pheromone, Sugarcane, Ethyl Acetate, Ethanol and a Blend of 28 Components Possibly Attractive to R. palmarum. Mean (+SEM) R. palmarum/trap/week in traps baited with pheromone and different synergists. ANOVA (n = 9-10)

Traps with Propylene GlycolFresh Sugarcane2 Week Old Sugarcane4 Week Old Sugarcane8 Week Old Sugarcane

Traps with Propylene GlycolNew Sugarcane2 Week Old Sugarcane6 Week Old Sugarcane

Wk 3 -4 Wk 5 -6 Wk 7 -8 Wk 1 -2 Wk 9 -10

R.

pal

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um

/

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/ W

eek

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*

Fig . 5

Fig . 6

Fig . 7

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2

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18

R. p

alm

aru

m

/ Tr

ap /

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k Pheromone & Sugarcane

Pheromone & Ethyl Acetate : Ethanol

Pheromone & Ethyl Acetate

Pheromone & Blend H

a

a,b

b b b

a

a,b

b

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. pal

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on log(X+1) transformed data gave Week 1: F = 7.37; df = 3,35; p < 0.05; Week 2: F = 6.19; df = 3, 35; p < 0.05; Week 3: F = 8.16; df = 3,35; p < 0.05. Means topped by a different letter are significantly different, Bonferonni, P > 0.95.

Replacement of food bait due to decomposition and desiccation is a major effort in trapping R. palmarum and R. ferrugineus. In the case of R. palmarum in the dry season food bait becomes dry and unattractive after 2 weeks while in the wet season decomposition renders food bait unattractive due to decomposition after 3-4 weeks. Attempts to construct artifical food bait from chemical odors (Rochat et al., 2000) have not been successful (Figure 5). Water is an essential ingredient of traps since a primary method of retaining weevils in traps is for them to feed on insecticide-laden wet food. In the Middle East where trapping is targeted against R. ferrugineus food bait in traps often dries out within a few days and traps loose their ability to retain attracted weevils.

We conducted several experiments to extend the useful life of trap food bait by addition of inexpensive materials that retard the evaporation of water, are not repellant to the weevils and are not toxic to humans. Figures 3 and 4 show typical results with one such additive, propylene glycol. Propylene glycol does not evaporate so traps containing it do not get dry. Propylene glycol is not toxic to humans (ethylene glycol, antifreeze, is toxic) and is relatively inexpensive. Propylene glycol prolongs the useful life of sugarcane baited traps until at least 7 weeks. In Figure 6 after 4 weeks traps with the propylene glycol are still more attractive than 2 week old traps with water. Traps with propylene glycol were still attractive and contained liquid after 10 weeks.

Figure 6. Capture of R. palmarum in Bucket Traps Baited With Pheromone, Sugarcane and Propylene Glycol. Mean R. palmarum in pheromone traps containing commercial pheromone lures (ChemTica), sugarcane, Lannate in water and variably propylene glycol. Treatments were traps baited additionally with fresh sugarcane in 750 mL of water containing 0.13% Lannate (New Sugarcane); 2 week old sugarcane in 750 mL of water containing 0.13% Lannate (2 Week Old Sugarcane); 6 week old sugarcane in 750 mL of water containing 0.13% Lannate (6 Week Old Sugarcane) and fresh sugarcane, ethyl acetate lures in 750 ml of water with 20% propylele glycol and 0.13% Lannate placed November 14, 2000 (Traps with propylene glycol). Ten traps of each treatment were placed. Means of capture are presented. ANOVA on data collected November 29 (n = 9-11), December 16 (n = 9-10) and January 14 (n = 9-10) indicated no significant differences between treatments. ANOVA (n = 8-10) on December 31 and Feb 1 (n = 9-10) indicated traps containing new sugarcane were significantly more attractive than other treatments.

In Figure 7, traps prepared with propylene glycol remained attractive 7 weeks. At this time point traps containing propylene glycol were still almost as attractive as freshly prepared traps.

Figure 7. Capture of R. palmarum in Bucket Traps Containing pheromone, Sugarcane and Propylene Glycol. Experiment set up January 14, 2001 all traps contained commercial pheromone lures (ChemTica). Treatments were traps baited additionally with fresh sugarcane in 500 mL of water containing 0.13% Lannate (New Sugarcane), 2 week old sugarcane in 500 mL of water containing 0.13% Lannate (2 Week Old

Sugarcane), 6 week old sugarcane in in 500 mL of water containing 0.13% Lannate (6 Week Old Sugarcane) and fresh sugarcane, ethyl acetate lures in 750 ml of water with 50% propylene glycol and 0.13% Lannate placed January 14, 2001 (Traps with propylene glycol). Ten traps of each treatment were placed. Means of capture are presented.

ConclusionsIt can be concluded that emission of ethyl acetate from traps baited with the aggregation pheromone and suitable food more than doubles captures of R. palmarum and R. ferrugineus in traps. Substitution of chemical attractants for sugarcane in pheromone traps baited to attract R. palmarum results in very low captures. Addition of very low levels of insecticide (0.1%) to pheromone traps retains significant proportions of R. palmarum that would normally escape from these traps. Additon of propylene glycol to pheromone traps significantly increases attraction of R. palmarum after 2-3 weeks allowing servicing to be less frequent.

Literature CitedAbdullah, F.F. and S.A. Al-Khatri. 2005. The effect of ethyl acetate on the captures of males and females of the Red Palm Weevil, Egypt. J. Agric. Res. 83: 169-177.

Chinchilla, C.M., Oehlschalger, A.C., and L.M. Gonzalez. 1993. Management of Red Ring Disease in Oil Palm Through Pheromone-based Trapping of Rhynchophorus palmarum (L.). Palm Oil Research Institute of Malaysia International Palm Oil Congress, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, September, p A428-A441.

Jaffe, K., P. Sanchez, P., Cerda, H., Hernandez, J.V., Jaffe, R., Urdaneta, N., Guerra, G., Martinez, R., and B. Miras. 1993. Chemical Ecology


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of the American Palm Weevil, Rhynchophorus palmarum, J. Chem. Ecol. 19:1703-1720.

Oehlschlager, A.C., 1998. Trapping of the Date Plam Weevil, FAO Workshop on Date Palm Weevil (Rhynchophorus ferrugineus)and its Control, Cairo, Egypt, December 15-17.

Oehlschlager, A.C., Chinchilla, C.M., Gonzalez, L.M., Jiron, L.F., Mexon, R., and B. Morgan. 1993a. Development of a pheromone-based trapping system for Rhynchophorus palmarum (Coleoptera: Curculionidae). J. Econ. Entomol. 86:1381-1392.

Oehlschlager, A.C., Chinchilla, C.M., and L.M. Gonzalez. 1993b. Optimization of a Pheromone-Baited Trap for the American Palm Weevil Rhynchophorus palmarum (L.). Palm Oil Research Institute of Malaysia, International Palm Oil Congress, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, September.

Perez, A.L., Campos, Y., Chinchilla, C.M., Gries, G., Gries, R., Pierce, Jr., H.D., L.M. Gonzalez, L.M., Oehlschlager, A.C., Castrillo, G., McDonald, R., Giblin-Davis, R.M., Pena, J.E., Duncan, R.E., and R. Andrade. 1997. Aggregation Pheromones and Host Kairomones of the West Indian Sugarcane Weevil, Metamasius hemipterus, J. Chem. Ecol. 23: 869-888.

Rochat, D., Nagnan-Le Meillour, P., Esteban-Duran, J.R., Malosse, C., Perthuis, B., Morin, J.P., and C. Descoins. 2000. Identification of Pheromone Synergists in American Palm Weevil, Rhynchophorus palmarum, and Attraction of Related Dynamis borassi J. Chem. Ecol. 26:155-188.


35

The Early Detection of Red Palm Weevil A New Method

Kassem TofailliFounder, AgriMed Solutions, Ltd.

[email protected]

This document gives an overview of the current detection methods and introduces a totally new technique for the early detection of the RPW. The method is based on a combination of medical, computer, and electronic technologies. Because the larva is the most dangerous phase of the pest due to the direct damage it inflicts on the infected tree, this document concentrates on this phase of the life cycle. Several graphics and photos

AbstractThe Red Palm Weevil (Rhynchophorus Ferrugineus), or RPW, is considered one of the most dangerous pests facing palm trees in over 35 countries (including the GCC, Mediterranean, East Asia and part of Europe). Many attempts have been made to deal with this deadly pest, often referred to as the “palm cancer”. As of yet, however, no viable method to detect the pest in its various forms has been developed.

The Early Detection of Red alm eeeil A New Method

36

are exhibited showing results of the tests that were performed in the course of developing this method. The paper also suggests new quarantine protocols that could help improve the efficiency and effectiveness of post-infection strategies. And finally the paper suggests possible directions for future research and product development.

Keywords: palm tree, red palm weevil, pest control, early detection, electronics in agriculture

IntroductionOf all the pests and insects that attack palm trees, Red Palm Weevil (Rhynchophorus Ferrugineus) is arguably the most virulent. The most comprehensive RPW website publishes quarterly data on the infestation rates of this deadly pest, and the numbers are growing exponentially. Affected countries (about 40 by now) include members of the GCC and others in the Mediterranean, East Asian, and Southern European regions.

Finding an efficient solution to the RPW problem will not only save a “blessed” tree, but would also help farmers and governments reverse the mounting financial losses that have resulted. Although there are no specific studies on the economic impact of this problem, estimates place annual losses in multi-billion dollar ranges. The direct costs include the value of the destroyed trees and their potential date crop, the cost of trapping and other quarantine methods, and the huge budgets allocated to the various chemical treatments. The indirect costs are also substantial. The most significant of these is the restricted movement of trees, especially their offshoots. These restrictions result in drastic cuts in trading not only among countries but also between different regions of the same country.

TESTING PROCESS

Photo 1: Selected offshoot plants wrapped and transported to the test location: Italy


37

The “Palm cancer”, as the RPW is often termed, has been the subject of intensive research in recent years. Most studies conclude that effective treatment is unlikely to be achieved in the absence of effective early detection. The term “early detection” essentially refers to the detection of infection while at the larva stage. The life cycle of the RPW starts with an adult female laying approximately two hundred eggs on new growth, either at the base of young leaves or in open lesions on the plant. Each egg hatches into a white legless larva. The larva will feed on the soft fibers and terminal buds, tunneling through the internal tissue of the tree, often excavating holes in the trunk. Scientists agree

that it is this burrowing of the larva into the palm heart that causes the most mortality. By the time the larva pupates, the damage that has already been inflicted is so serious that it eventually kills the host.

In addition to the long dormancy period, another problem complicating treatment is the rapid spread rate. Scientists believe that the main cause of the high spread rate is human intervention. The transportation of infested young or adult date palm trees and offshoots from infected to uninfected areas is the main culprit here.

Currently, there is a wide belief among policymakers, researchers, and farmers

that early detection would help save thousands (if not millions) of healthy trees through the use of simple measures to quarantine the infected trees and protect the uninfected trees and offshoots. Potentially, then, early detection could help win the war against the RPW. In this short paper, we propose a test-proven early detection method that we believe could change the battle field.

The next section reviews some of the main methods currently in use in the war against the RPW pest and their limitations. Our proposed methodology will then be outlined along with a description of the initial testing performed. Conclusions and recommendations are presented in the last section.

Overview of current methodsOver the years, the standard approach for dealing with the RPW problem has been to exterminate adult pests. This is usually done through chemical treatment (usually involving the injection of various insecticides inside the tree). There are two main problems with the standard approach. The first is that by the time the infection is detected and the treatment begins, the damage is so serious that the tree usually dies anyway. The second problem, also related to late detection, is the spread of the infection beyond the original area due to the transportation of infected trees and offshoots. This late detection of the presence of the weevil has long constituted a serious problem in the fight against the pest, and has led to a flurry of research aimed at early detection. Despite this, no safe techniques for early detection have been devised. A brief survey of the current detection methods follows.

A popular and well established

Photo 2: Plants were trimmed and removed from pots in preparation for the test


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A method that received substantial attention when first proposed a few years ago involves the injection of a virulent topical nematode worm into infected palm trunks. Once inside the weevil’s body, the worm releases a lethal bacterium that causes death within three days. The strategy was only tested successfully in the laboratory, however. In real applications, the technique turned out to be deficient on one important account: the nematode attacks only mature weevils, not larvae. Since the weevils would have inflicted most of their damage by the time they are detected, the technique will not reduce mortality rates unless it is combined with an effective early detection method that allows farmers to inject the worm in trees that are identified to harbor the larvae.

The possibility of using audio detection systems (based on acoustics) has also been explored, but this method has only been tested in a laboratory setting and is still far from being implemented on a wide scale commercial basis.

Finally, and much more recently, there have been trials with trained sniffing dogs to smell the presence of larvae or mature weevils inside a tree truck. While this method may hold some future promise, especially, if the dogs could smell the larvae, mixed results have been reported. A question will probably remain as to how accurate and reliable the results are, and where the exact location of the infestation is.

It is obvious from the above that much progress still needs to be made on early detection and diagnosis. The RPW spends most of its life cycle in a dormant larva state inside the tree trunk. By the time symptoms are manifested and treatment begins, it is already too late. Not only has that particular tree and its offshoots been already infested, but, since mature

technique entails the use of traps to determine the presence of RPW within certain perimeters. The major drawback with this method is that at most it only defines a general area where there is an infestation. In this way, it indicates the presence of the pest within that perimeter but could neither identify the specific tree or offshoot that is infected nor the extent of the damage that is already inflicted.

Another method involves the visual

observation of infestation symptoms. This method relies on the human eye to detect the weevil. Clues such as chewed fiber rejects at the base of leaves or stems, folding and dying leaves, or smelly secretions are observed as possible clues to the presence of the pest. This method is seriously limited, however, because infested adult palms could live for years without displaying external symptoms.

Photo 3 : Plants were trimmed and removed from pots in preparation for the test

Photo 4 : Drilling several in different sizes


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vital for the success of any RPW-IMP programs”. According to our own literature review as well as first-hand interviews, this sense of urgency is shared by most researchers and public policymakers in countries where RPW infestation is high.

Parameters of the proposed techniqueThe method proposed and explained in this paper focuses on diagnosis. Our goal is to develop a viable system to detect the RPW inside the tree in as many life cycle phases as possible. The method represents a totally new approach based on two simple hypotheses: a) an effective detection technology must provide definitive visual inspection of the pest, and b) detection must occur at the larva stage in order to achieve the desired mortality rate reduction. A technology like that would not only solve the major detection challenge of the weevil problem but would also eliminate most of the wasteful and costly guesswork that has characterized public policy in this domain.

Based on a thorough analysis of the current diagnostic routines, we decided to explore the usefulness of X-ray technology to this special detection problem. Despite the fact that current x-ray systems are mainly designed to identify human and animal tissues, this technology has been used in other applications, including a number of non-destructive tests and procedures. Additionally, there have been several attempts to use x-ray imaging to inspect wood surfaces for different purposes, but never before in pest control.

Detailed system description and testingPractically palm trees can be divided into two main categories: a) offshoots

Photo 5 : Infestation with Larvas (different sizes and location)

Photo 6 : Infestation with Larvas (different sizes and location)

weevils travel fast from one tree to another, many of the surrounding trees within a particular perimeter would also be at risk. This leads to a much higher mortality than anticipated. That is why a lot of the contemporary research in this field

is now focusing on issues related to detection, specifically early detection. As asserted by J.R. Faleiro in his authoritative review of 100 years of RPW management and treatment experience, the “early detection of Red Palm Weevil infestation in the field is


40

and unplanted trees, and b) planted trees. Each category requires a different set of mechanical and functional requirements. The system we assembled was mostly designed for unplanted trees with plans in the works to deal with the planted trees in the field.

The System A number of factors were involved in defining system hardware and

software requirements, such as tree density (which could vary from one plant to another), pest tissue density, system mobility, etc. Once an optimum (representative) configuration was determined, we contracted with a specialized factory to build a customized x-ray system that included several components. System assembly and testing were performed in Italy.

The Testing ProcessAs already explained, and because the larva causes the most direct harm to the inner part of the tree, the priority was to detect the larva. Preparations for testing were performed in the following steps. Details about each step are also presented under each photo.

First, we selected 4 offshoots (shown in photo number 1) with trunks 35-40 cm in diameter. These were x-rayed prior to any infection.

Using a drill, we then created several tunnels with different sizes (8, 6, 4, 3 mm) (shown in photos number 2)

Next, we inserted live larvae of different sizes into the trunks at different locations (shown in photo number 3)

Finally, we closed the holes with artificial jelly materials, and prepared the offshoots for another round of x-rays.

Test ResultsTesting was performed using the specially designed radiography system and resulted in clear visual detection of the larvae in the radiographs. Specifically, the different tunnels made inside the tree trunk are clearly visible along with the larvae inside each tunnel (photo number 4). The test showed the larva in different locations (photos 5 and 6). Furthermore, the movements of particular larvae can be traced by comparing different photo pairs (this is shown in photo number 7 and number 8). All the data were collected and stored in different formats which could easily converted for further processing.

System BenefitsBy performing tests such as the ones above at different local and regional testing stations in each country,

Photo 7, 8 : Test showing all tunnels made using different size drills

Photo 9, 10 : Highlighted Larvas inside the trunk


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infested offshoots could be identified and removed prior to shipping. It should be mentioned that the results that can be obtained in the field are unlikely to deviate much from those obtained in the lab. Confidence in the reported tests is therefore high.

The most important benefit of this system would be the resumption of offshoot trading among countries. This will allow farmers to recapture the income-earning potential of their offshoots. In recent months, this income had dwindled to negligible amounts in light of tighter regulations and stricter movement controls. The system would also allow the movement of larger unplanted palm trees of different sizes, such as those exported for their aesthetic and landscaping features.

In the future, it is expected that systematic detection would become part of all Integrated Pest Management (IPM) programs. The stationery scanning system which could be located at different borders, airports, seaports and inland locations

Photo 11, 12 : Larva moving iside the trunk

can ultimately scan any unplanted tree regardless of its size.

Finally, the proposed system can also be used to help scientists better understand the biology of the RPW (system could monitor day-by-day its behavior) and the extent of the damage it causes by monitoring closely its development inside the tree trunk.

Related System FunctionsThe purpose of this document is only to introduce this new method and prove its feasibility. However, it must be born in mind that a complete system would probably include a number of other features. For example, a conveyor belt to move the offshoots and trees being tested would be necessary, as well as one to sort the output between uninfected and infected trees. Components that perform the tracking, labeling, and tracing functions must also be considered.

ConclusionsThe results obtained represent a breakthrough which could provide a new opportunity to combat a dangerous pest. The benefits of the system as a detection tool have been exposed. Further development needs to be performed to enhance the success rate of test results. One possible route for that is the use of advanced image enhancement and processing techniques.

It should be noted that this paper was not designed to explain and all system features and functions but to report the successful results obtained and emphasize the importance of implementing this new method in the field in order to help eradicate this pest and ultimately consider is as a new detection standard as part of any effective IPM programs.


42Painting by: Rawan Ismail

Painting by: Marya ahmad albreemi

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The Montreal Protocol and the Methyl Bromide Phase Out in the Dates’ Sector

(CUNs). The exemption application process is extremely rigorous. After analysis of the CUNs, MBTOC makes recommendations on the applications to the Parties to the Protocol. The Parties then determined whether or not to approve each application. The two countries presenting every year CUNs for dates’disinfestation are the US (California) and Israel. Consumption of MB for controlled uses has significantly decreased both in developed and developing countries. In A5 countries, phase-out has been achieved to a large

Mohamed BesriMethyl Bromide Technical Options

Committee Co-chair (MBTOC, UNEP) Institut Agronomique et Vétérinaire

Hassan II, Rabat, Morocco

[email protected]

AbstractThe meeting of the parties (MOP) to the Montreal Protocol called for the Methyl Bromide (MB) phase-out in 1992. In 1997, a global phase-out schedule of this chemical was established by the MOP: Article 5 countries are required to freeze consumption and production of MB by 2002, reduce its use by 20% in 2005 and complete total phase-out by 2015. Non Article 5 countries had to phase-out MB by 2005. However, non article 5 countries were allowed by the parties to present Critical Use Nominations

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extent through investment projects funded by the Multilateral Fund of the Montreal Protocol through its implementing agencies and some bilateral agreements. UNIDO designed a project proposal to address the issue of alternative of MB for the palm date sector.

The objective of the project is to demonstrate whether alternatives to MB for the treatment of high moisture dates are technically and economically available in Algeria and Tunisia. UNEP and UNEP/ROWA have organised many activities in North Africa and in the Middle East to discuss and implement alternatives to MB for dates’ disinfestation.

Keywords: Montreal Protocol, ozone layer, methyl bromide, dates, critical use exemptions.

IntroductionStratospheric ozone protects life on earth from the damaging effects of ultraviolet B radiation. In 1974, Molina and Rowland, from the University of California in the United States, proposed the hypothesis that stratospheric ozone was being broken down by volatile man-made Ozone Depleting Substances (ODS). This prediction was of enormous environmental importance and earned both of them a Nobel Prize in chemistry in 1995. In response to the resulting ozone hole being observed in the 1980s, the Vienna Convention to protect the ozone layer was set up in 1985 and in 1987, the Montreal Protocol (MP) was formed and this commenced regulation of ozone depleting gases.

Increased UV radiation on earth created by the ozone hole has many effects on organisms and human health. It affects plants and animals alike. Phytoplankton populations are reduced and this affects the food

chain. In humans, increased exposure to UV-B increases the risk of skin cancer, cataracts, and a suppressed immune system (Fahey, 2006).For example, in Australia it adds to their already high incidence of skin cancer, which is the worst in the world, with two out of three Australians being affected by it at some stage of their lives.

MB was included as an ozone depleting substance under the Copenhagen Amendment of the MP in 1992. Although MB has a much shorter half-life than many other ODS substances in the atmosphere, bromines are up to 50 times more destructive than chlorines and regulation of MB was considered to have immediate benefits to ozone layer recovery. The Copenhagen amendment set different phase-out schedules of 2005 and 2015 for industrialized (Non-A5) and developing (A5) countries, respectively. Quarantine and Preshipment (QPS) uses are presently exempted from controls, although consideration is being given to further regulation. Although many sectors in industrialized countries met the phase out of 2005, a large number of sectors sought to retain MB under the ‘Critical Use’ provisions of the Montreal Protocol, which allowed for continued use of MB if no technical or economical alternatives existed (Porter et al., 2009). Developing countries are expected to phase out by 2015 with a provision for ‘Critical Uses’ if required. The two non Article 5 countries presenting every year CUNs for dates’ disinfestation are the US (California) and Israel.

The objective of this paper is to present the trends in global MB consumption during the last 20 years, the decision IX/6, the CUNs in the dates sector presented by Israel and the USA, The UNIDO project for Algeria and Tunisia and finally, UNEP activities in North

Africa and in the Middle East in the dates sector.

Trends in global methyl bromide consumptionFor the past six decades, MB has been the fumigant of choice to ensure effective soil disinfestation for preplant soil treatment in many horticultural sectors. The main reasons for this are its broad spectrum of activity, its high vapor pressure which allows it to act in the gaseous phase in the soil - a characteristic facilitating its distribution through the soil profile - its cost-effectiveness, and the comparatively short plant-back intervals necessary after application. Targets have traditionally included soil borne fungi, bacteria, viruses, insects, nematodes and weeds (Martin, 2003; MBTOC, 2007; TEAP, 2009).

Presently, over 90% of the remaining non-Quarantine and Preshipment (non-QPS) uses of MB (controlled uses) are for soil fumigation, and the remainder is for non-QPS treatment of commodities (rice, dates, chesnuts, pasta, cured pork) and structures (mills). The major crops using MB as a soil fumigant worldwide are tomatoes, strawberry fruit, peppers, eggplant, cucurbits, ornamentals (cut flowers and bulbs), orchards (for replant disease) and nurseries (including, strawberry runners) (TEAP, 2009).

Consumption of MB for controlled uses has significantly decreased since the MP and its Copenhagen Amendment entered into force, both in developed and developing countries. Fig. 1 shows trends in MB consumption in Non-A 5 and A 5 countries for the period between 1991 and 2007. The global consumption of MB for controlled uses was estimated to be about 64,420 metric tons in 1991 and remained above 60,000 tones until 1998 (TEAP 2009).

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The official baseline (1991 consumption) for Non-A 5 countries was 56,043 tones in 1991 and since then, consumption has declined to 6,966 tones in 2008 or 12% of the baseline. The official baseline for A5 countries (average consumption for the period 1995- 1998) was 15,703 tones, rising to a peak consumption of 18,125 tones in 1998, declining to 6,226 tones or 40% of the baseline in 2007 (Fig. 1).

As mentioned above, MB consumption for controlled uses (non - QPS) in industrialized countries is only presently permitted under the Critical Use Exemption (CUE) process, a detailed procedure by which Parties must demonstrate that alternatives are not available for a specific use, under the particular circumstances of the nomination. Since 2005, there has been a progressive trend by all Parties to reduce their nominations for consumption for preplant soil uses and post harvest uses of methyl bromide, although this has occurred at different rates (TEAP 2009). Figures 2 and 3 show the trends in the reduction in amounts approved/nominated for ‘Critical Use’ from 2005 to 2010 for strawberry and tomato crops in the major MB user regions in developed countries.

In A5 countries, phase-out has been achieved to a large extent through investment projects funded by the Multilateral Fund of the Montreal Protocol through its implementing agencies (UNIDO, UNEP and the World Bank) and some bilateral agreements (MBTOC, 2007; TEAP, 2009).

Substantial progress has been achieved in A5 countries that consumed the greatest quantities of MB. Since 2003, total A 5 consumption has fallen by 1,420 metric tones per year on average (2003-2007). Only

12 Parties still report consumption between 100 and 500 tones and only two countries remain in the usage category above 500 tones. Phase-out trends, per region, are illustrated in Fig. 4.

Critical use exemptionsDecision IX/6Under Article 2H of the Montreal protocol, the production and consumption of MB is to be phased out in non Article 5 countries by 1 January 2005. However, decision IX/6 established criteria allowing CUEs (TEAP 2009). Production and consumption, if any, of methyl bromide for critical uses should qualify as “critical” only if the nominating party demonstrate that:

The specific use is critical because the lack of availability of methyl bromide for that use would result in a significant market disruption;

There are no technically and economically feasible alternatives or substitutes available to the user that are acceptable from the standpoint of environment and health and are suitable to the crops and circumstances of the nomination;

Methyl bromide is not available in sufficient quantity and quality from existing stocks

All technically and economically feasible steps have been taken to minimise the critical use and any associated emission of methyl bromide;

An appropriate effort is being made to evaluate, commercialise and secure national regulatory approval of alternatives and substitutes, taking into consideration the circumstances of the particular nomination and the special needs of the Parties, including lack of financial and expert resources, institutional capacity, and information;

That research programmes are in place to develop and deploy alternatives and substitutes.

The CUE processThe exemption application process is extremely rigorous. Detailed information is required from each applicant, including comprehensive information on the impact of alternatives on crop yields and profit margins, and a description of efforts undertaken to develop, register, and apply new alternatives. The parties submit the CUN to the Ozone Secretariat of the United Nations Environmental Programme (UNEP). The Ozone Secretariat then forward all CUN’s to the Methyl Bromide Technical Options Committee (MBTOC). After analysis of the CUNs, MBTOC makes recommendations on the applications to the Parties to the Protocol. The Parties then determined whether or not to approve each application (TEAP, 2009).

In evaluating the CUNs for soil and post harvest treatments, MBTOC assumes that a technically feasible alternative to MB would need to provide sufficient pest control. Technically feasible alternatives do not necessarily provide superior pest control results than are achieved in practice by MB. When the requirements of Decision IX/6 are substantially met, MBTOC recommends the full amount of the request. Where some parts of a CUN did not meet Decision IX/6, MBTOC recommends a decreased amount, depending on its technical and economic evaluation. MBTOC reduces a nomination when a technical alternative is considered effective or, in a few cases, when the Party failed to show that it was not effective. In cases where Decision IX/6 did not satisfy to a substantial extent, MBTOC did not recommend the nomination (TEAP, 2009)

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US dates were referred to as ‘fresh’ but the American definition stands in contrast to the Deglet-Noor dates of North African countries (Algeria and Tunisia) which are also harvested ‘fresh’ at maturity but are at 30-40% moisture content. It is the moisture content and not the freshness of recent picking that impacts the potential for alternatives to be effective. When dates are at 17-23% moisture content, they are dry fruits (Navarro, 2006; Navarro, 2009; Kader and Hussein, 2009), and for these fruits, alternatives exists (MBTOC, 2007). Heat, phosphine, controlled atmosphere and cold treatment are effective and are registered for use in the US. In addition, sulfuryl fluoride is also registered for treatment of dates and recent trials have indicated efficacy, at least for adults and larvae of some pests (Navarro, 2009). For these reasons, the US nomination was not recommended.

The UNIDO project for Algeria and TunisiaIn Algeria and Tunisia, The main problem of Deglet-Nour variety is its high moisture content which is between 30 and 40% (w/w). The main pest which infests dates in these two countries before and after the harvest is a Lepidoptera, the carob Moth (Apomyelois ceratoniae = Ectomyelois ceratoniae)

In Decision XV/12, the Parties to the Montreal Protocol recognizes the risk of potential non-compliance for those A5 countries that rely on the use of Methyl Bromide to stabilize and disinfest high moisture dates at time of harvest. Indeed, up to now, MBTOC has not been able to identify feasible alternatives to replace the use of this fumigant in the specific sector of high-moisture dates (MBTOC, 2007; TEAP, 2009). In the same decision the Parties requested the Executive Committee

Critical use nominations in the dates sector: Israel and USA

Most of the dates producing A5 and non A5 countries have been using MB for about fifty years due its effect, efficient penetration, quick actions, low cost, highly killing capacity against the main date’s pests (Besri, 2008; Blumberg, 2008).The two countries presenting every year CUNs for dates’disinfestations are the US (California) and Israel (TEAP, 2009).

IsraelIsrael submitted CUNs in 2007, 2008 and 2009 for 2008, 2009 and 2010 uses. No nomination was submitted in 2010 for 2011 use. In the 2009 nomination, the most significant change since submission of previous nominations was the adoption of the thermal disinfestation treatment for Mejhool variety during the harvest season of 2008. This treatment was adopted in all the date packing stations. Investigations were then conducted to adopt the thermal disinfestation treatment to other varieties of dates. The results obtained from laboratory and field trials confirmed that this technology can also be used to disinfect all the dates’varieties. Heat technology is now providing a substitute for methyl bromide fumigation for Mejhool, Deglet Noor and also for all the other varieties (Hadrawi, Halawi, Deri, and Zehidi). This is why no critical nomination was submitted in 2010 for 2011 use (Table 1)

From 2006 to 2009, the nominated MB quantities have been reduced from 3.444 tons to 1.560 tons (Table 1). Thermal disinfestation treatment for Mejhool has been adopted during the 2008 harvest season at all date packing stations. In 2008 and 2009, this alternative was not adopted for the other varieties (Amery, Deglet-Noor, Hadrawi, Halawi, Deri, and

Zehidi) because of difference in the handling procedure between Mejhool and these varieties at the point of entry into the packing stations. Mejhool dates are placed one layer high in shallow trays, to avoid the damaging of the soft Mejhool dates. In contrast to Mejhool, the other varieties including Deglet Noor, are harvested and handled within the packing stations in plastic crates of 0.5-1 m3 capacity for bulk storage of 200-400 kg of dates in which the dates are piled to a height of 40 cm. These crates have not sufficient ventilation to permit drying inside the crates. The thermo-physical aspects of the drying procedures inside crates and inside trays are completely different (Navarro, 2006). For the trays, the time needed for the dates to reach 50ºC is about 3 hours whereas for dates inside crates the required time is much longer. The conversion of handling the date varieties other than Mejhool, from crates into single layer trays appears as a costly operation not only in the replacement of the crates, but also in the entire handling system. In 2009 round, MBTOC recommended a reduced nomination of 1.040 tones, about 60% of the nominated amount (1.560 tones). The Party nominated 1.560 tones and noted that methyl bromide is only used for those date varieties for which heat treatment or other alternatives have not been shown to be effective. The basis for the reduction in the nomination was to decrease the dosage rate to 20g m-3 from 30g m-3.

USAThe US nomination for dates was for Deglet-Noor harvested in California. The moisture content of US dates at time of harvest is between 17-23%. The length of time needed to achieve date maturity on the tree, results in considerable drying, while the dates are still on the tree. Thus,

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have discussed the results of the experiments conducted in Biskra, Algeria (UNIDO, 2009): Controlled atmosphere is not compatible with the disinfestation of Deglet Nour dates because the exposure time is so long that the dates ferment and become inedible.Phosphine with ammonia fumigation makes darker the dates and reduce the quality of the fruit. All other alternatives have potential to replace methyl bromide. Nevertheless, sulfuryl fluoride and ethyl formate can not be considered for the next tests in full scale because they are not registered in Algeria. Therefore, the Vienna workshop recommended only two alternatives to be commercially tested: Phosphine without ammonia (with an exposure

of the Multilateral Fund to consider financing demonstration projects on alternatives for high-moisture dates. On behalf of the Governments of Algeria and Tunisia, UNIDO designed a project proposal to address the issue of alternative of MB for the palm date sector.

The objective of the project is to demonstrate whether alternatives to MB for the treatment of high moisture dates are technically and economically available in Algeria and Tunisia (UNIDO, 2008; Savigliano, 2009).

The project proposal was submitted to the 54th Meeting of the Executive Committee of the Multilateral Fund for the implementation of the Montreal Protocol for its consideration. The

project was approved in April 2008 at the 54th Meeting of the Executive Committee, for a total cost of US$ 306,812 for the two countries, plus US$ 23,011 of support costs for UNIDO. The duration of the project is 24 months thus allowing tests in two consecutive harvesting seasons, namely in November 2008 and November 2009. Based on the actual needs of palm date producers and exporters and taking into consideration the locally available infrastructures, equipment and skills, the following five alternatives have been considered as potential alternatives to Methyl Bromide: heat treatment, ethyl formate, phosphine, modified atmospheres and sulphuryl fluoride (Ducom and Ciesla, 2009).

A workshop was organized in Vienna where scientific and technical experts

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Source: MBTOC estimates calculated from Ozone Secretariat data at September 2009 (TEAP, 2009).

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time of 3 days and high temperatures) and heat treatment.

UNEP activities in the Middle East UNEP has organised many activities in the Middle East to discuss alternatives to MB for dates disinfestation (UNEP/ROWA, 2008; UNEP/ROWA, 2009). The Regional Workshop on “Uses of MB Alternatives in the Date Sector” held in May, 2008 in Cairo, Egypt, (UNEP/ROWA, 2008) recommended the member states to establish a database on date production in the region. The main objectives of such database is to assist the countries (1) accessing to a wide range of data about MB consumption in all sectors in general and in date sector and related industries in particular, (2) obtaining significant and reliable information about the trends in MB consumption in date sector of each country, (3) identifying alternatives availability in each country which

allow exchanging and transferring experiences as well as information sharing and (4) addressing their future needs of policies, regulations and legislations updating as well as research and/or assistance required (UNEP/ROWA, 2008). A regional experts group meeting on applications of methyl bromide alternatives in dates’ sector was organised in, 2009, in Al Khobar, Saudi Arabia (UNEP/ROWA, 2009). Before the meeting, a survey form was sent to technical experts experienced in MB and its alternatives use in date sector in some regional dates producing countries (Iraq, Jordan, Saudi Arabia, UAE, Yemen, Egypt, Tunisia, and Algeria). The surveys have shown that the date’s situation in the Middle East is completely different from the one in North Africa. In Tunisia and Algeria, Deglet Nour (which is not grown in the Middle East, except in Israel) has high moisture content, varying between 30 and 40 %. In Jordan,

only Mejhool (semi dry) is fumigated. Egypt fumigates only dry varieties. In the surveys, Phosphine as alternative has been reported by Jordan, Egypt, and Tunisia. Therefore, in the Middle East the date’s fumigation problem is completely different from the one reported in Tunisia and Algeria. The approach to propose commercially and economically feasible alternatives should also be different (UNEP/ROWA, 2009).

The participants to Al Khobar workshop recommended also to establish a “Regional Date/MB Helping Desk” to achieve the following objectives: (1 Establishment of a database to exchange knowledge among Arab countries in relation to date production and protection, 2) Organizing workshops and seminars for sharing information in relation to dates production and treatments, 3) Organise training (capacity building) in various fields of dates production and protection (preharvest and post

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Solid lines indicate trends in MB used for CUEs. Dashed lines indicate the quantity of methyl bromide nominated by the party in either 2010 or 2011 (TEAP, 2009). CUEs: Critical Use Exemptions

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harvest), (4 Editing a newsletter/journal on dates, 5) Helping scientists to address needed research areas, (6 Facilitating the creation of networks in the region to increase the scientific cooperation between the members countries, 7) Providing consultancies to the members states and to the private sector, (8 Raising awareness concerning the depletion of the ozone layer by MB and alternatives to this fumigant, 9) develop a training handbook in the dates’ sector. The MB Helping Desk will promote the date sector in all Arab countries and will provide solutions to the problems related to the use of MB alternatives faced by the date’s producers.

ConclusionsThe increasing demand for high quality dates that are not chemically treated and the phase out of MB, which is used in fumigation and disinfestation of dates, have

Fig. 4. Methyl Bromide trends in A 5 and CEIT countries 1991 – 2007 (TEAP 2009).

Source: Ozone Secretariat data, 2009. CEIT : Countries with Economies in Transition (TEAP, 2009)

created the interest for searching and adopting alternatives. Two parties, Israel and USA, are regularly submitting CUNs in the date sector. Researchers in Israel have tested and developed an effective and practical alternative (heat treatment) to control pests in their date varieties under their packing house circumstances. Israel has not submitted any CUN in 2010 for 2011 use. MB has been completely phased out in the date sector in this country. It is unknown whether heat treatment would be suitable for fresh moisture dates in other countries. A UNIDO project will test this alternative in Algeria and Tunisia. The US 2009 CUN is for Deglet-Noor variety (low moisture content). In its evaluation, MBTOC considered that alternatives exist and did not recommend this nomination. On behalf of the Governments of Algeria and Tunisia, UNIDO designed a project proposal to address the

issue of alternative of MB for the palm date sector. The objective of the project is to demonstrate whether alternatives to MB for the treatment of high moisture dates are technically and economically available. The first results obtained are encouraging. UNEP/ROWA has organised many activities in the region to discuss and to implement strategies for phasing out MB in the dates’ sector.

Decision XVII/12 requests MBTOC to continually review progress in availability of alternatives for dates. Non article 5 countries should develop alternatives as soon as possible and before 2015. Cooperation between Non Article 5 and Article 5 countries is needed. Funds from the MLF should be made available for A5 countries to develop alternatives.

ReferencesBarreveld, W.H. 1993. Date palm products. FAO Agricultural Services, Bulletin No. 101;

Besri, M. 2008. Critical use exemption and alternatives to methyl bromide for dates production. In: report of the regional workshop on uses of methyl bromide alternatives in the date sector. Cairo, 24-25 may, 2008.

Blumberg, D. 2008. Review: Date palm arthropod pests and their management in Israel, Phytoparasitica, 36,5, 411-448

Ducom, P. and Y. Ciesla. 2009. Preliminary tests on quality of high moisture dates with five alternatives to methyl bromide. In: Obenauf G. L., Obenauf, R. (Eds), Annual International Research Conference on Methyl Bromide Alternatives and Emissions Reductions, San Diego, California, USA, pp. 71-1, 71-4.

Fahey, D.W. 2006. Twenty questions and answers about the ozone layer: 2006 update. Science Assessment Panel, UNEP, Nairobi, 50 pp. http://

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Table 1. Years of nomination, years of use, quantities nominated and recommended by MBTOC (TEAP, 2009).

Table 2. Methyl Bromide historical use in the US dates’sector (tones) (TEAP, 2009).

From 2003 to 2008, The MB quantities used for the US dates’disinfestation varied from 3.145 tones (2003) to 2.019 tones (2008). The CUNs for 2009 use has not been recommended by MBTOC.

ozone.unep.org/Assessment_Panels/SAP/Scientific_Assessment_2006/Twenty_Questions.pdf

Kader, A.A. and A. Hussein. 2009. Harvesting and postharvest handling of dates. ICARDA, Aleppo, Syria. iv + 15 pp.

Martin, F.N. 2003. Development of alternative strategies for management of soilborne pathogens currently controlled with methyl bromide. Annual Review of Phytopathology, 41:325–50

MBTOC, 2007. 2006. Assessment Report of the Methyl Bromide Technical Option Committee, UNEP, Nairobi. 453 p.

Molina, M. and F.S. Rowland. 1974. Stratospheric sink chlorofluoromethanes: chlorine atom catalysed destruction of ozone. Nature,249:810-812.

Navarro, S. 2006. Postharvest treatment of dates. In: Sarig, Y. (Ed) Quality, Stewart Postharvest Review (UK) Vol. 2, Issue Number 2, April 2006, pp. 1-9.

Year of nomination Year of useQuantities (tons)

Nominated Recommended

2005 2006 3.444 3.444

2006 2007 3.444 2.755

2007 2008 2.200 2.200

2008 2009 1.800 1.800

2009 2010 1.560 1.040

2010 No nomination

2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009

2.616 2.468 2.887 3.145 1.999 2.019 0

Navarro, S. 2009. Postharvest treatment of dates in Israel. In: Report of the workshop on alternatives to methyl bromide for the post harvest treatment of palm dates. Vienna, 16-17 April 2009.

Porter, I., Pizano, M., Besri, M., Mattner, S., and P. Frazer. 2009. Progress in the global phase out of Methyl bromide and the relative effectiveness of soil disinfestation products to replace fumigation for preplant soil uses. Proceedings of the 7th International Symposium on Chemical and non-Chemical Soil and Substrate Disinfestation, Leuven, Belgium, 13-18 September, 19. 2009.

Savigliano, R. 2009. Demonstration project on alternatives to methyl bromide for high moisture dates: Algeria and Tunisia. In: Report of the workshop on alternatives to methyl bromide for the post harvest treatment of palm dates. Vienna, 16-17 April, 2009.

TEAP. 2009. Report of the Technology and Economic Assessment Panel. Evaluation of 2009 CUNs for methyl

bromide and related matters. Final

report, September 2009.

UNEP/ROWA. 2008. Report of the

regional workshop on uses of methyl

bromide alternatives in the date

sector. Cairo, 24-25 may, 2008:

UNEP/ROWA, 2009. Report of the

regional experts’ group meeting

on applications of methyl bromide

alternatives in date’s sector. Al Khobar

(Saudi Arabia), 13-16 December, 2006.

UNIDO. 2008. Regional Demonstration

Project on alternatives to the use of

methyl bromide for treatment of high

moisture dates. Project presented to

the 54th meeting of the executive

committee of the multilateral fund for

the implementation of the Montréal

Protocol.

UNIDO. 2009. Report of the workshop

on alternatives to methyl bromide for

the post harvest treatment of palm

dates. Vienna, 16-17 April 2009.

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