Anti-Locust Bulletin (1957) 26, 1-96

R.C. Rainey, Z. Waloff and G.F. Burnett (1957)
The behaviour of the red locust (Nomadacris septemfasciata Serville) in relation to the topography, meteorology and vegetaton of the Rukwa Rift Valley, Tangayika
Anti-Locust Bulletin 26, 1-96
Abstract: The general topography, climate, weather and vegetation of the Rukwa Valley outbreak area of Nomadacris septemfasciata are described. The micrometeorological effects of the environment on locust behaviour were investigated. Adult Red Locust populations there in 1948 are referred to phase transiens on general behaviour and on morphometric criteria. At least four morphometrically distinct populations were identified and these were all relatively stationary. Flight activity was rare; the factors limiting flight, and the winds, flying speed and orientation influencing the displacement of airborne locusts were studied. Internal body temperatures were studied in relation to behaviour. Detailed observations on the daily regime of behaviour indicated that the most important factor limiting flight was lack of mutual stimulation related to low population densities and tall, dense vegetation. The formation and escape of swarms are discussed in relation to the inhibiting effects apparently characteristic of these grasslands.
(The abstract is excluded from the Creative Commons licence and has been copied with permission by the publisher.)

Research topic(s) for pests/diseases/weeds:
population dynamics/ epidemiology
environment - cropping system/rotation

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Pest and/or beneficial records:

Beneficial	Pest/Disease/Weed	Crop/Product	Country	Quarant.
	Nomadacris septemfasciata