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Modeling Pine Caterpillar, Dendrolimus spectabilis (Lepidoptera: Lasiocampidae), Population Dynamics with a
Young-Kyu Park1, Youngwoo Nam2, Won Il Choi2
1Korean Beneficial Insects Lab. Co., Ltd., Gokseong 57507, Republic of Korea.
Insects
|January 28, 2026
Summary
Stage-structured matrix models reveal that pine caterpillar populations are most vulnerable after hatching and during overwintering. Monitoring pest density post-winter is crucial for effective forest management strategies.
Area of Science:
- Ecology
- Entomology
- Population Dynamics
Background:
- Insect population dynamics are complex and influenced by life stages.
- Stage-structured matrix models are effective for analyzing insect populations with distinct developmental stages.
- The pine caterpillar (Dendrolimus spectabilis) is a significant forest pest.
Purpose of the Study:
- To apply stage-structured matrix models to understand the population dynamics of Dendrolimus spectabilis.
- To identify the most vulnerable life stages of the pine caterpillar for targeted management.
- To inform forest management strategies for controlling pine caterpillar outbreaks.
Main Methods:
- Field monitoring of pine caterpillar populations (larvae, pupae, eggs) over one year.
- Construction of life tables and stage-structured matrix models based on field data.
- Sensitivity analysis to determine vulnerable life stages.
Main Results:
- Pine caterpillar density showed a decreasing trend from 7.9 to 0.5 individuals per 1000 cm² branch.
- The population growth rate was 0.74, indicating a declining population.
- The most vulnerable stages were identified as immediately post-hatching larvae and during overwintering.
Conclusions:
- Stage-structured matrix models are valuable tools for analyzing pine caterpillar population dynamics.
- Management efforts should focus on the vulnerable stages, particularly post-overwintering.
- Monitoring pest density after overwintering is essential for timely control decisions and forest protection.
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