Arthropoda kártevők monitorozása és fajmeghatározása a múzeumi gyakorlatban

IPM-tapasztalatok a Magyar Nemzeti Galériában

Absztrakt

Monitoring and identifying insect pests in museum practice: IPM experiences at the Hungarian National Gallery
The status of silverfish in the environment of artefacts and the appearance of a new alien pest species in Hungary

The concept of Integrated Pest Management (IPM) was adapted from agriculture and the food industry to ensure more effective protection against pests in museums and various cultural institutions. IPM involves a holistic approach to address all pest problems collectively, rather than managing each issue separately. This strategy aims to prevent problems and crises by taking proactive actions and measures. The first IPM programme in the Hungarian National Gallery was launched in 2019, focusing on testing materials and methods for monitoring and detecting pests. Collaboration between different departments, from building management to conservators, and a comprehensive knowledge of the building and storage areas are essential for successful IPM strategies. Identifying potential entry points for pests within the building and areas that may attract pests is vital. Integrated pest management offers solutions for both vertebrate and invertebrate pests. For cost-effectiveness and sustainability, custom-made sticky traps were created using recycled cardboard and double-sided adhesive. Periodic monitoring and documentation of trapped insects are essential for evaluating the effectiveness of IPM strategies. Microscopic examination of pests is essential for identifying pests. The results of the four-year IPM programme at the Hungarian National Gallery revealed the most common pests and helped prioritise areas for intervention. Continuous improvement and adaptation of IPM strategies are necessary, especially with the emergence of new invasive species due to climate change.
In 2024, a new species was identified in the Hungarian fauna, underlining the importance of IPM, especially insect trapping. While encountering various arthropods in museum settings, not all pose actual harm to artefacts. The number of known species in Hungary fluctuates due to globalisation processes such as trade, increased tourism, and climate change. Previously unknown invasive arthropods may appear in local collections, potentially unrecognised as pests, as exemplified by the appearance of the long-tailed silverfish (Ctenolepisma longicaudatum) in Hungary.
Newly emerging pest species are typically synanthropic, thriving near humans. The temperature-controlled urban environment facilitates the establishment of animals not adapted to the region’s climate. The expanding distribution of the siverfish is attributed to its ability to tolerate lower temperatures and relative humidity levels. While numerous in the Zygentoma order, only a few species are addressed as museum pests in Europe. The species appearing in Hungary belong to two families: Lepismatidae and Nicoletiidae.
Although the presence of native and introduced pest species in museum environments is nearly unavoidable, their establishment can be minimised with a systematic and preventative IPM strategy.