Successional and invasive colonization of the potato crop by the Colorado potato beetle: managing spread

Abstract

This chapter is a review of the research on successional colonization (seasonal recolonization) and invasive colonization of potato crops by the Colorado potato beetle, Leptinotarsa decemlineata (Say), with a particular emphasis on the management of colonization events. Invasion is presented as a specific case of the more general process of colonization. The bringing together of current knowledge reveals the fundamentally similar ecological processes that apply to all types of colonization. These processes form the basis from which sound potato beetle management strategies can be elaborated. The importance of economic factors in determining the applicability of the different strategies and the selection of specific control measures should not, however, be overlooked, and is highlighted throughout the review.