Mothing Lights: Part 2

Having primarily used a string of UV LED "party lights" for my mothing activities over the past couple of years, I am now looking to upgrade my lights to ones that emit light more centred in the UV-A spectrum to better attract moths.

Most available LEDs that are advertised as UV lights only emit from 395-405nm, and these frequencies are actually near-UV, and not the optimum UV-A peak frequency of 365nm that is recommended to attract the widest variety of nocturnal insects (see research paper). Lights emitting at 365nm are not commonly found, but the realUV™ LED spotlight sold by Waveform Lighting (see website) appears to a good product. They are not cheap ($165 USD plus taxes), but they are rated to resist the morning dew or unexpected rain. LED strips are also available for about $110 USD (including 12V power supply), but would require some additional protection from the dampness/rain for outdoor use. I have chosen the combined 365/395nm LED strips on the Entoquip lights (see website) which cost about $100 USD plus taxes and shipping.

In addition to my sheets with the LED lights, I have also acquired a 365nm CFL bulb that I will use in a porch light fixture with a mesh laundry bag to make a UV-A moth trap. The sale of fluorescent bulbs has already been discontinued in Europe and are currently being phased out here in North America. In the near future, advances in LED lights will likely lead to the availability of a less expensive, more efficient, and brighter UV LED in the dedicated UV-A spectrum.

I will continue to use my older "party-lights" as a portable mothing kit to travel with (see Mothing Lights Part 1). Another inexpensive (but not completely waterproof) option is this lightbar (see ebay listing)

One day perhaps, I shall buy the best available UV light for mothing; the LepiLED offered by Dr. Gunnar Brehm (see website). However, at a cost of around €450 (plus import duty/customs fees) this is not likely to be happening anytime soon. Even more pricey is the EntoLED2 (see website) at €700.

Looking forward to spring and another season of mothing!

Loopy30

Posted on January 10, 2024 06:45 PM by loopy30