Geostatistical Analysis of the Spatial Variation of Chrysolina aeruginosa Larvae at Different Stages in Desert Ecosystems

SIMPLE SUMMARY: The spatial distribution of pests is a prominent topic of research in population ecology. Knowledge of pest distribution patterns (including the specific plant segments that are most heavily infested) is of utmost significance in devising appropriate monitoring programs that will effectively reduce the utilization of pesticides. Geostatistical analysis, which reveals spatial correlations and dependencies, is vital in achieving an accurate comprehension of the disparities in pest spatial distribution. In this study, we utilized geostatistical methods to identify the spatial distribution of Chrysolina aeruginosa, a commonly occurring pest that attacks Artemisia ordosica in desert ecosystems of Ningxia, at various developmental stages. Our results indicated differences in the vertical distribution of larvae at distinct stages of growth. The number of larvae varies in relation to the height of the plants, and various morphological characteristics such as crown width and ground diameter. Furthermore, the larvae exhibit an inclination to aggregate. ABSTRACT: Chrysolina aeruginosa is a major pest of Artemisia ordosica, and knowledge of the spatial distribution pattern of its larvae in their natural habitat is crucial for the implementation of effective control measures. This study employed geostatistical methods to investigate the damage caused by larvae of different age groups and their spatial distribution pattern. The distribution of C. aeruginosa larvae, which cause damage to A. ordosica, differed significantly according to their age. Younger larvae were predominantly found in the middle and upper parts of the plant, whereas older larvae were mainly distributed in the middle and lower parts, with significant differences in distribution location. A generalized linear model analysis revealed that the height of the plant, and plant morphological characteristics such as height, crown width, and ground diameter were significantly correlated with the number of larvae present. Furthermore, the interaction of age with other variables had an impact on the number of larvae. Kriging interpolation showed that C. aeruginosa larvae were distributed in aggregated patches with strong spatial heterogeneity. The younger larvae were more abundant in the center of the sample site, while the older larvae tended to be distributed toward the edges. These findings provide valuable information for designing effective control programs.