DiMON
DiMON is a new device designed to monitor insects and other small invertebrates without harming them. Instead of collecting and killing specimens like traditional traps, the system gently guides animals through a small imaging chamber. As they pass through, a compact camera and a mirror system capture several high‑resolution images from different angles. The organisms are then released back into their environment unharmed. These images are analysed using artificial intelligence to help identify species and track biodiversity over time. By automatically collecting detailed data, the device can operate continuously with little human intervention. This makes it easier to monitor changes in insect populations across many locations while reducing the need for frequent field visits. DiMON offers a more ethical and efficient way to study biodiversity and helps scientists better understand how insect communities change through the seasons and across landscapes.
Device installed in the field. Powered by a battery and solar panel.
View of the camera.
Technical details (hardware and software)
- Processing unit: Raspberry Pi 4
- Camera: Arducam Hawkeye (64MP), manual adjusted motorized focus, low FPS, 3840×3840 resolution
- 3D printed parts + patented mirror system + off the shelf components
- Power manager: Witty Pi 4
- Power: 38Ah battery + Solar panel – can last a complete season (depending on location)
- Power consumption: ~6 W
- Extra components: entomological traps to be coupled
- device only collects images, the processing is done off-site
- Components price: ~600 €
Contact:
Adriano Gama
adriano.gama@list.lu
Developed at: Luxembourg Institute of Science & Technology – LIST
Project homepage: https://researchportal.list.lu/projects/detail/dimon
Software: https://github.com/LIST-LUXEMBOURG/app4cam-backend – https://github.com/LIST-LUXEMBOURG/app4cam-frontend