Outbreaks of the migratory locust Locusta migratoria (Orthoptera: Acrididae) and control in China

Abstract

Outbreaks of the migratory locust, Locusta migratoria L., occurred in the northwestern part of China. The processes leading to the outbreaks and successful control are described based on locusts collected in infested areas and information obtained from local experts and scientists. Swarms of adults landed on the grazing and farming lands of Jiminay County, Altay Prefecture, the Xingjian Uygur Autonomous Region in 2003 and 2004, and caused substantial damage to agricultural crops and pastures. In the spring of 2004, numerous nymphs that had developed black patterns appeared in Jiminay. They and migrants from the north were sprayed with insecticides during the period from July 20 to August 6, 2004. A total of 4,200 personnel were involved in this mission. As a result, further damage to crops and migration to other areas were prevented. Morphometric measurements indicated that the migrants had reached the body dimensions typical for gregarious forms.