The distribution and migration of Spodoptera littoralis (Lepidoptera Noctuidae) in relation to meteorology on Cyprus interpreted from maps of pheromone trap samples.

A network of 51 pheromone traps was distributed throughout Cyprus for a period of 7 mo. during 1972, and catches of male S. littoralis (Boisd.), pest of potatoes and lucerne, were recorded each day to determine whether Spodoptera adults were immigrating from elsewhere by mapping changes in their distribution and density in relation to current meteorological conditions, especially wind-flow patterns. No major immigration was demonstrated, even when favorable winds from neighboring countries occurred at times when the insect was abundant. The major increases in catch in the island trap network were explained by population growth within the island, together with localized movements away from areas of high population density.