Effect of matrix habitat on the spread of flea beetle introductions for biological control of leafy spurge

摘要: Matrix habitats are known to influence the movement patterns of a variety species but it is less well whether these effects have strong implications for spatial population dynamics, including spread biological introductions. Using spatially explicit simulation model parameterized with empirical data, we examine how grass and shrub matrix habitats, each offering different resistance dispersal, impact biocontrol agent, Aphthona lacertosa, on invasive weed, leafy spurge. Model predictions indicate that differential responses habitat little effect agent’s over study landscape this supported by statistical models fit observed A. lacertosa incidence same landscape. Subsequent experimentation suggested colonization rates were largely unaffected increases in amount more restrictive matrix. However, simulations an hypothetical greater overall dispersal ability reduced rate through showed noticeably when percentage approached 50%. Combined results suggest some tailoring release strategies may be required accommodate unique capabilities agents particular landscapes, there appears structure spread.