Landscape modeling of Lygus hesperus populations

Lygus is a key pest in several of the 200 crops grown in the geographically distinct San Joaquin Valley. Spring weather patterns drive population build-up on host-plants. Habitat maps were created from survey sites in cropping regions of Kern County, CA. Population simulations were used to predict abundance and movement among the mosaic of landcover types. The results provide estimates of pest pressure in target areas. General conclusions about risk from landscape configuration may be used in other contexts.