HORTIV Megalight Powers Innovative Insect Research at Migal & Northern R&D Center
Northern Research and Development (Northern R&D) is a center for research and development of agricultural production in the northern region – a climatically diverse region. Northern R&D is situated in MIGAL - Galilee Research Institute operated by Israel's Ministry of Science and Technology and owned by the Galilee Development Company. The aim is to strengthen and develop agriculture in the north. With nearly 100 PhDs and 200 researchers working in more than 45 research groups, Northern R&D and Migal conduct groundbreaking studies in biotechnology, computational science, plant science, precision agriculture, environmental science, food, nutrition, and health. Their interdisciplinary collaboration bridges science, industry, agriculture, academia, and technology.
The Laboratory
Dr. Rakefat Sharon leads a laboratory at Migal, Northern R&D, focused on finding behavioral solutions to pest control challenges in agriculture, aiming to reduce insecticide applications. Established 16 years ago, this laboratory collaborates with other Israeli institutes to devise innovative methods for tackling agricultural pests.
For example, researchers have refined techniques such as pheromone confusion to disrupt male insects' ability to locate females (mating disruption), effectively controlling pest populations. Another approach involves identifying "trap plants" more attractive to insects than the target crops, thereby protecting the main agricultural produce.
"Our goal is to develop effective, practical, and affordable solutions that provide immediate and sustainable ecological results," says Dr. Sharon. "By studying insect behavior, we aim to refine pest control methods and anticipate how pests may adapt to them, ensuring long-term effectiveness"
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The Challenge
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Dr. Sharon explains that plant diseases transmitted by insects are a primary concern. To study these, the laboratory cultivates plants alongside the insects they aim to control. These plants require optimal lighting conditions for healthy growth.
“The lighting system must support plant growth without producing excessive heat, as climate-controlled rooms are sensitive to temperature fluctuations,” says Dr. Sharon. “Excess heat can adversely affect both plants and insects and complicate climate management.”
The Solution
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To meet these stringent requirements, Dr. Sharon explored several lighting suppliers. HORTIV Megalight stood out for their adaptability and customer-focused approach.
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“We needed a system customized to our unique requirements,” explains Dr. Sharon. “HORTIV Megalight was approachable and demonstrated a willingness to tailor their products. They visited our lab, assessed our needs, and offered solutions that ensured optimal light wavelengths reached the entire plant area effectively.”
HORTIV’s system allowed precise light control, including dimming options and the ability to simulate day and night cycles. This level of customization was crucial for experiments requiring variable lighting conditions.
The Result
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HORTIV Megalight’s solution exceeded expectations. The advanced system provided:
- Optimal wavelength coverage for plant growth.
- Controlled light intensity to simulate natural day-night cycles.
- Minimal heat output, preserving climate stability in the lab.
- A cost-effective, tailored solution.
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Dr. Sharon praises HORTIV Megalight for their collaborative approach: “Their team ensured the system was perfectly suited to our needs. They provided exceptional support, from system design to installation, and their local presence made ongoing consultation seamless".
HORTIV Megalight’s innovative lighting system has empowered Migal’s laboratory to advance agricultural pest control research. By fostering effective collaboration and delivering tailored solutions, HORTIV continues to set a benchmark for excellence in agricultural technology.
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Our Customer Says
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Eric Benmeir Kozakow, manager of the Northern R&D plantation research farm, shares his experience working with Hortiv Mega Light:
“Throughout the process, Yair and Yan gave us confidence with their personalized service. They went above and beyond to adapt the system to our requirements, providing creative and professional solutions. The technical support, installation, and assembly exceeded expectations, and we are completely satisfied with the results".
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