Real-Time and Sustainable Termite Management: Application of Intelligent Monitoring Systems in Reservoirs

Abstract

Termites pose a threat to water conservancy infrastructure due to their concealed, recurring, and long-term destructive behaviors. Consequently, implementing termite monitoring in critical hydrological facilities—such as reservoirs—is essential for timely prevention and control. Owing to its real-time efficiency, environmental sustainability, and overall effectiveness, the intelligent termite monitoring system has gradually emerged as a pivotal strategy for termite management. This paper systematically expounds upon the fundamental principles, overarching architecture, and key features of the current intelligent termite monitoring technology in China. Drawing on its practical application in the Suokoutan Reservoir, we detail the specific implementation procedures and examine the corresponding outcomes. Furthermore, an in-depth analysis of the system’s prospective development is presented, providing feasible references and scientific guidance for advancing termite monitoring, early warning, and control in water conservancy projects.

1. Introduction

Termite prevention and control in water conservancy projects are of critical importance, as subterranean termites (e.g., Odontotermes formosanus) and other dyke-related pests are often hidden [1], persistent [2], and capable of causing leakage, piping, nest collapse, and even the failure of dams and dykes, thereby posing a significant threat to the structural integrity and safety of these infrastructures [3,4,5]. In recent decades, termite prevention and control in China’s water conservancy projects have evolved through four distinct stages: chemical control [5,6,7] bait-based termite management [7], the “three links and eight procedures” approach [8], and integrated termite management [9]. Termite monitoring is a crucial component of integrated termite management and a necessary prerequisite for precise and effective extermination efforts [10]. Compared to traditional termite control methods, the use of monitoring–baiting stations can significantly reduce the application of termiticides, which is favorable for reducing damage to the ecological environment. Monitoring–baiting stations have been widely utilized for integrated termite management, particularly for termite remedial control [11]. Wu et al. tested the monitoring range and environmental durability of an intelligent termite monitoring system, finding that it can operate reliably under high humidity, as well as elevated and reduced temperatures, within a 1.5 m radius of the monitoring stake, achieving an effectiveness rate exceeding 95% [12]. Yang et al. conducted intelligent termite monitoring tests on select embankment sections of Pulatan Lianxu in Gongqingcheng, demonstrating that the technology can monitor termite activity in real time [13]. Nanda et al. developed a termite identification and detection system based on acoustic and thermal signals, employing support vector classification and artificial neural network algorithms to detect termites and estimate their population [14]. In addition, several researchers have explored the advancement of intelligent termite monitoring systems, developing prototypes that incorporate electromagnetic induction non-loop through-and-through technology [13], along with Zigbee [15], GIS [16], and Boruta-based analytical methods [17]. Although intelligent termite monitoring systems have demonstrated promising performance in testing and software development, they remain susceptible to extreme weather conditions and are still in the early stages of practical application. Consequently, further engineering projects are urgently required to validate their effectiveness in real-world conditions. Here, we present a detailed explanation of the system’s components, operational principles, and implementation procedures, along with a thorough analysis of the resulting outcomes. Furthermore, we undertake an in-depth examination of potential future developments, providing practical insights and scientific guidance to improve termite monitoring, early warning systems, and control strategies in the context of water conservancy projects.

2. Intelligent Termite Monitoring Technology

The Yellow River Xiaolangdi Multipurpose Dam Project in China implemented intelligent termite monitoring technology for integrated termite control. It resulted in a 99% reduction in the theoretical use of chemical agents and an 86% decrease in prevention costs, demonstrating its eco-friendliness, technological sophistication, and efficiency [18]. Sensors are strategically placed in areas prone to termite activity within water conservancy projects to detect their presence [19].

Intelligent termite monitoring systems predominantly utilize sensors, wireless communication technologies, and data processing algorithms [14,20,21]. The collected data are then transmitted via wireless communication technologies to a cloud server for processing and analysis [22]. Data processing algorithms subsequently generate real-time early warning messages, enabling users to take timely preventive and control measures [20]. Two primary sensing methods are commonly employed: the first leverages termites’ natural feeding behavior on bait materials embedded with internal circuits. When these circuits are damaged, it indicates termite activity, facilitating remote monitoring. The second method involves measuring fluctuations in ambient carbon dioxide (CO₂) concentration, where an increase suggests the presence of nearby termites [21,23].

The principle of the intelligent termite monitoring system involves selecting food preferred by termites, combined with a killing bait as the bait device [19]. This device is buried in the ground, and once termites feed on it, the toxic bait is spread through cross-feeding behavior, ultimately eradicating the entire termite colony [24]. The baiting device primarily consists of a hollow wooden stick with strong luring properties and a killing bait placed inside. This bait stick, combining the two elements, is secured within a monitoring baiting device and installed in the designated protection area of the hydraulic dam. With advancements in internet of things (IoT) technology, staff can use mobile monitoring equipment to observe termite activity at each monitoring point in real time and implement specific control measures tailored to different situations [25].

The architecture of the intelligent termite monitoring system consists of three main components: the front-end trap monitoring part, the intermediate transmission and storage part, and the central processing and warning part [26,27], as illustrated in Figure 1:

(1)

Front-end trap monitoring component: This component is typically deployed in termite-prone areas and includes a trap detection unit and a monitoring unit. The trap detection unit primarily uses bait to attract termites and monitors the disturbance signals generated by termite clusters. The monitoring unit transmits and processes these signals.

(2)

Intermediate transmission and storage component: This section connects the front-end monitoring component with the central processing system. It is responsible for transmitting disturbance signals detected in the field, as well as storing and backing up relevant signal data.

(3)

Central processing and warning component: This section serves as the terminal system for the entire monitoring architecture. It receives and converts disturbance signals, issues timely warnings about termite cluster activity, and facilitates the implementation of preemptive control measures.

Figure 2 illustrates a schematic diagram of the composition of the intelligent termite monitoring system. This version of the system incorporates lightning protection equipment to mitigate the effects of thunderstorms and rain, an improvement over the original design. Additionally, the inclusion of a storage battery and solar panels significantly enhances the system’s battery life and overall durability. The system also employs electromagnetic induction non-loop pass-through technology and remote sensing GPS positioning technology. These features provide excellent waterproofing (IP68 grade), strong anti-interference capabilities, and precise localization on a satellite map. Furthermore, the system enables automatic monitoring and delivers accurate, comprehensive, and real-time data on termite activity. As a result, the system demonstrates strong potential for development, particularly in addressing extreme weather impacts and practical engineering applications.

3. Material and Methods

3.1. Test Sites

The Suokoutan Reservoir, situated in Xishui County, Huanggang City, Hubei Province, has an area of approximately 1300 square meters, a total capacity of 2,913,400 cubic meters, and a designed irrigation area of 4,466,689 square meters. As part of the 2022 Small Reservoir Safety Monitoring Capacity Enhancement Pilot Project in Hubei Province (project number: HBSXXSK-AQJC-2022), the Suokoutan Reservoir implemented a smart termite monitoring system, which was supplied by Waning Pest Control Technology Co., Ltd. (Shanghai, China), for a trial period of one year followed by five years of operational maintenance. This initiative has advanced research into termite damage monitoring and control, as well as engineering solutions for reservoir safety.

3.2. The Bait-Based Termite Intelligent Detection System

The implementation of the intelligent termite detection system involves several key components, including the layout design of monitoring points, the installation and arrangement of trap and detection units, and the integration of mobile terminals. As subterranean termites (e.g., Odontotermes formosanus) habitually draw water from the reservoir-facing side of a dam and feed on its land-facing side, they excavate intricate tunnel networks within the dam structure, posing a grave threat to its stability. Consequently, monitoring points should be strategically placed along the slopes of the reservoir dam and in areas of potential termite activity [28]. The trap detection unit comprises a trap monitoring tube and a trap detection element, as shown in Figure 3.

(1)

Bait monitoring tube: The bait monitoring tube consists of an outer layer, an inner layer, and a top cap. The outer layer uses traps to lure termites, while the inner layer and top cap contain baits to trap termites. The bait used consists of a 4% Gramoxone powder mixed with 0.03% Gramoxone poison bait, prepared in a ratio of 1:1.5–3.3, with ivermectin as the active ingredient.

(2)

Baiting detection device: The baiting detection device consists of a detection rod and a detector. The detection rod attracts termites and generates anomalous electrical signals through a conductive powder material layer, while the detector transmits these signals to the monitoring unit.

Finally, with the assistance of mobile terminals, staff can monitor data from each unit in real time, assess termite activity, and take targeted control measures.

Figure 4 illustrates a schematic diagram of the trap monitoring tube and a diagram of its actual effect. The shells of the trap monitoring tubes are predominantly cylindrical, with the tube walls typically featuring feeding holes. These holes enhance the effectiveness of the test rods (or baits) inside the tube, while also allowing for daily inspections by staff. Different monitoring tube models mainly vary in shell volume and the shape of the feeding hole. This project uses monitoring tubes with dimensions of 130 mm x 180 mm, which are cylindrical in shape and conical at the bottom. During daily inspections, when termites are detected, the bait can be placed directly in the inner layer. This approach prevents disturbance to the termites by handling only the outer layer of the tube, thereby ensuring that the termite bait functions more effectively in spreading and exterminating termites.

3.3. Termite Intelligent Detection System Layout Method

To evaluate the practical effectiveness of the intelligent termite monitoring system, the management unit of Suokoutan Reservoir installed termite trap monitoring tubes in 2023 at sites prone to termite activity. These sites included the upstream slope, the top of the slope, and the downstream slope. The installation followed the current Chinese local Standard for Termite Damage Evaluation of Construction Projects [28]. The monitoring pipes were typically arranged along the longitudinal axis of the dam, spaced 5 to 10 m apart, in parallel lines. The installation of each monitoring point required excavating a 25 cm deep, 20 cm wide groove to facilitate the placement of the monitoring pipe. The monitoring system was implemented with a total of 100 monitoring points at Suokoutan Reservoir, as shown in Figure 5.

3.4. Results

Since its deployment in early 2024, the intelligent termite monitoring system has been conducting real-time surveillance at the Suokoutan Reservoir, with data uploaded weekly for analysis by relevant personnel. As shown in

Table 1. Performance of the system for detecting termite activities during a 12-month period.

Site	Months	TN	TP	FN	FP	AR%
The Suokoutan Reservoir 100 stations	3	100	0	0	0	100%
	6	88	12	0	0	100%
	9	40	54	0	6	94%
	12	31	63	0	6	94%

TN (true negative), no alarm and absence of termites; TP (true positive), alarm signal and presence of termites; FN (false negative), no alarm with the presence of termites or no alarm when stations were destroyed; FP (false positive), alarm signal and absence of termites. Accuracy rate (AR)% = (TN + TP)/(TN + TP + FN + FP) × 100%.

, the system recorded 69 alarm data points from reservoir monitoring equipment. To eliminate false positives and omissions, manual verification was conducted every three months, leading to the identification of termite presence at 63 monitoring points. The system demonstrated an accuracy rate exceeding 90% in practical applications. The primary factor affecting the accuracy rate was misidentification by the sensors.

For example, on 27 July 2023, the system detected a termite signal near monitoring device 194, and an on-site survey confirmed signs of termite chewing on the interior and heavy Odontotermes formosanus activity. In response, the staff promptly initiated termite control measures, effectively addressing and preventing further infestation. Additionally, since its operation, the actual power consumption of the monitoring device has remained below 10%, demonstrating good endurance. Thus, the system provides a reliable means of sensing for the termite monitoring data management platform, ensuring timely termite detection and control, and offering strong support for the safety of reservoir dams.

Compared to traditional bait stations and other control systems, the intelligent termite monitoring system significantly reduced labor costs and enhanced the efficiency of termite monitoring [29,30,31,32]. It provided real-time monitoring, reduced labor consumption, and improved the efficiency of termite extermination. Upon detecting clustered termites, the monitoring device can track the electrical signals of termite movement and transmit the data to the platform, triggering an alert. This enables relevant personnel to take timely preventive and control measures, avoiding delays in bait placement and facilitating quicker extermination of the termites. As a result, the system greatly improves the efficiency of termite prevention and control.

Compared to traditional manual monitoring methods, intelligent termite monitoring systems offer several advantages:

(1)

Strong real-time capability: Real-time monitoring is enabled through data collected by sensors, allowing for the timely detection of termite activity. This facilitates accurate monitoring, high efficiency, and environmental protection, while significantly enhancing the safety monitoring capabilities of water conservancy projects.

(2)

High degree of automation: The entire monitoring process operates without human intervention, reducing labor costs and time consumption, and improving the operational and management efficiency of water conservancy projects.

(3)

Scalability: The number and placement of sensors can be adjusted according to specific needs, allowing for flexible adaptation to different monitoring scenarios and ensuring comprehensive, full-coverage monitoring.

(4)

Advanced data analysis capability: By analyzing and mining large volumes of data, potential patterns and trends in termite activity can be identified, providing a solid scientific foundation for prevention and control measures.

4. Discussions

The hidden, recurring, and long-term nature of termite infestations has created significant challenges in termite control within water conservancy projects. As a result, termite control is shifting from traditional chemical methods and manual monitoring to an integrated treatment approach. Termite intelligent monitoring and control technology, with its real-time efficiency and environmentally friendly features, can be combined with various methods, including physical, chemical, and biological control. This integrated approach can be applied in a targeted manner, considering specific scenarios and termite species, to more effectively manage termite hazards. Looking ahead, with the continuous advancement of IoT technology, the intelligent termite monitoring system is expected to have broader application prospects. Specifically, its future potential can be explored in the following areas:

(1)

Construction of a data sharing platform: By establishing a unified data sharing platform, termite monitoring data from different regions can be integrated to create a comprehensive termite distribution map. This will support scientific research and inform policy development.

(2)

Application of artificial intelligence technology: By integrating artificial intelligence (AI) technology, more accurate termite identification and classification can be achieved, thereby enhancing monitoring efficiency and accuracy.

(3)

Mobile application development: With the widespread use of smartphones and tablets, specialized mobile applications can be developed to enable users to monitor and manage termite activity anytime and anywhere.

(4)

Development of a multi-level protection system: In addition to building-specific prevention and control measures, a multi-level protection system can be established by focusing on ecological balance, environmental management, and other aspects.

(5)

Integration with “digital twin” technology: By incorporating “digital twin” technology, a termite control operation and management platform can be built. This platform would rely on a base map, expand its capabilities, accumulate data, and carry out control operations in a more standardized manner.