The role of behavior in the dispersal of newly hatched gypsy moth larvae

Michael L. Mcmanus; Michael L. Mcmanus

Treesearch

The role of behavior in the dispersal of newly hatched gypsy moth larvae

Informally Refereed

Authors:

Michael L. Mcmanus, Michael L. Mcmanus

Year:

1973

Type:

Research Paper

Station:

Northern Research Station

Source:

Res. Pap. NE-267. Upper Darby, PA: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Northeastern Forest Experiment Station. 10 p.

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Download (PDF 2.71 MB): https://research.fs.usda.gov/download/treesearch/23627.pdf

Abstract

Newly hatched gypsy moth larvae are morphologically and behaviorally adapted for airborne dispersal. The diel periodicity of both hatching and dispersal from the egg mass and photopositive behavior assure that larvae are in optimal position for dispersal when air turbulence is maximal at midday. The rate of larval activity depends upon ambient temperature and relative humidity (R2 = 0.77). The larvae continually trailed silk and did not feed upon reaching the foliage. Rather the larvae appeared predisposed to disperse and were readily dislodged by slight winds.

Citation

Mcmanus, Michael L. 1973. The role of behavior in the dispersal of newly hatched gypsy moth larvae. Res. Pap. NE-267. Upper Darby, PA: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Northeastern Forest Experiment Station. 10 p.