The spruce bark beetle is one of the greatest threats to Central European forests. Climate change—drought and higher temperatures—accelerates its spread even further. Traditional methods, such as removing infested trees or using trap logs, are no longer sufficient. That’s why the SMARTbeetle project was launched, introducing a completely new approach: a combination of modern biology and artificial intelligence.
How does it work?
A team of scientists and technology experts is developing optimized pheromone blends that attract bark beetles far more effectively than the baits used so far. Artificial intelligence plays a key role here: using a 3D model of the olfactory receptor, it predicts interactions between pheromones and the beetle’s receptors, allowing researchers to select the most promising candidates from thousands of possibilities. These blends are then tested both in the laboratory and directly in the forest. The result will be traps that reduce the number of infested trees while limiting pesticide use.
Main goal of the project
SMARTbeetle aims to ensure the long-term health of forests in Austria and the Czech Republic. This innovative solution will benefit not only nature but also the timber industry, which currently faces enormous losses. The project runs for four years and brings together seven partners from both countries—scientific institutions, innovation centers, and industrial partners. Together, they are creating technology that could change the way we protect forests from bark beetles.
For more detailed and up-to-date information about the project, follow the official Facebook group: SMARTbeetle
Official project website: Smell-based Molecular Artificial Intelligence to Fight Bark Beetles
The project is funded by Interreg Austria–Czech Republic (SMARTbeetle ATCZ00158).
