Range-Expansion in Processionary Moths and Biological Control

Area of Science:

• Ecology
• Climate Change Biology
• Entomology

Background:

• Global climate change induces significant biotic responses, including altered species interactions and range shifts.
• Oak processionary moth (OPM) and pine processionary moth (PPM) are thermophilic European insects.
• Both OPM and PPM larvae cause defoliation and produce urticating hairs containing thaumetopoein, posing economic and health risks.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze the impact of climate warming on OPM and PPM.
• To investigate the role of natural enemies in regulating these moth populations.
• To propose biological control strategies for managing OPM and PPM outbreaks.

Main Methods:

• The study discusses observed range expansions and outbreak patterns of OPM and PPM.
• It reviews the influence of warming temperatures on the species' life cycles and distribution.
• The role of natural enemies and potential escape from co-evolved predators are considered.

Main Results:

• PPM is expanding its range northward.
• OPM outbreaks are increasing in frequency and intensity in new regions like northern Germany, the Netherlands, and the UK.
• Warming temperatures and reduced predation pressure benefit both OPM and PPM populations.

Conclusions:

• Climate warming is a key driver for the expansion and increased outbreak severity of OPM and PPM.
• The reduction in natural enemy impact further facilitates population growth.
• Biological control methods are suggested as a sustainable approach to manage these invasive species.