Modeling the dynamics of mountain pine beetle aggregation in a lodgepole pine stand

摘要: At least once a year the mountain pine beetle searches for lodgepole pines that provide suitable habitat new brood. After attacking females feed, they produce an attractant pheromone causes beetles to aggregate and, during outbreaks, usually mass attack "focus" tree. Near completion of attack, incoming are repelled and initiate attacks on adjacent "recipient" trees. An understanding this "switching" process is useful prescribing measures minimize damage.A mathematical model was developed (1) describe aggregation, (2) predict relation tree susceptibility switching changes in density, (3) structure current knowledge, (4) pose questions further research. The indicates high population density ensures aggregation consequently successful colonization switching. also number attracted per differs from tree, possibly depending resin quality production and/or local flying beetles. Field results indicate size appears affect repellence beetles, suggesting or visual attractiveness large trees factor. Further research could be directed at our assumptions host resistance, repellence, emission rates, threshold concentrations, navigation, dispersion.