A review of estimates of numbers in some types of desert locust (Schistocerca gregaria (Forsk.)) populations

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Abstract
A review is given of estimates, both published and unpublished, of numbers in some types of desert locust (Schistocerca gregaria (Forsk.)) populations, and suggestions are made for further work in this field. For swarming adult populations, estimates of volume and area density and of the relative sizes of settled and flying swarms have been reviewed. For gregarious nymphal (hopper) populations, the area density of late-instar bands and the infestation rate following gregarious breeding have been examined. There is insufficient evidence to give estimates of the average numbers in any of these types of population with confidence, or to be able to estimate the environmental and physiological factors with which variation in density is correlated. It is not possible to make generally valid estimates of the densities of non-gregariously behaving populations. Practically no research has been done on population estimation methods suitable for such populations, although, in practice, estimates are made during field surveys. The principles underlying valid sampling techniques, and valid selection of the sample in various situations, are described.