Evaluation of extremely low-frequency electromagnetic resonance designed pulses for controlling red palm weevils, Rhynchophorus ferrugineus, by estimating the metabolic and enzyme activity responses

A study aims to investigate the effect of extremely low-frequency electromagnetic field (ELF-EMF) designed pulses on the biological and physiological systems of Rhynchophorus ferrugineus (Red Palm Weevils) reared insects under specific conditions for a specified period. About 300 RPW insects at three stages (larvae, pupae, and adults) are evenly divided. Each stage is similarly categorized into two groups: a tested group exposed to ELF-EMF with a strength of 30 mGauss at a frequency of 20 Hz for 86 minutes, and a control group not exposed. A magnetic field is generated and induced at the centre of the rearing holder via an electric current using a current generator device; the magnetic field strength is measured in Gauss with a gauss meter. During rearing, a predetermined number of insects from each group (control and tested) are isolated or taken for biochemical analysis tests that assess the core influence of the ELF-EMF designed pulses on the exposed insects compared to the unexposed, and the results are recorded. The biochemical tests involve measuring and comparing parameters such as total proteins, total carbohydrates, total lipids, invertase, and alkaline phosphatase enzymes. Additionally, the body weight of the insects is recorded before and after exposure, and the change in body weight and growth rate are calculated for comparison. The results indicate that body weight, growth rate, and the biological components of R. ferrugineus are negatively affected by exposure to ELF-EMF designed pulses.