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Impact of environmental variables on Dubas bug infestation rate: A case study from the Sultanate of Oman

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  • Khalifa M Al-Kindi
  • Paul Kwan
  • Nigel Andrew
  • Mitchell Welch

Abstract

Date palm cultivation is economically important in the Sultanate of Oman, with significant financial investment coming from both the government and from private individuals. However, a global infestation of Dubas bug (Ommatissus lybicus Bergevin) has impacted the Middle East region, and infestations of date palms have been widespread. In this study, spatial analysis and geostatistical techniques were used to model the spatial distribution of Dubas bug infestations to (a) identify correlations between Dubas bug densities and different environmental variables, and (b) predict the locations of future Dubas bug infestations in Oman. Firstly, we considered individual environmental variables and their correlations with infestation locations. Then, we applied more complex predictive models and regression analysis techniques to investigate the combinations of environmental factors most conducive to the survival and spread of the Dubas bug. Environmental variables including elevation, geology, and distance to drainage pathways were found to significantly affect Dubas bug infestations. In contrast, aspect and hillshade did not significantly impact on Dubas bug infestations. Understanding their distribution and therefore applying targeted controls on their spread is important for effective mapping, control and management (e.g., resource allocation) of Dubas bug infestations.

Suggested Citation

  • Khalifa M Al-Kindi & Paul Kwan & Nigel Andrew & Mitchell Welch, 2017. "Impact of environmental variables on Dubas bug infestation rate: A case study from the Sultanate of Oman," PLOS ONE, Public Library of Science, vol. 12(5), pages 1-17, May.
    • Handle: RePEc:plo:pone00:0178109
    DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0178109
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Luc Anselin & Arthur Getis, 2010. "Spatial Statistical Analysis and Geographic Information Systems," Advances in Spatial Science, in: Luc Anselin & Sergio J. Rey (ed.), Perspectives on Spatial Data Analysis, chapter 0, pages 35-47, Springer.
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    1. Rashid H. Al Shidi & Lalit Kumar & Salim A. H. Al-Khatri & Najat A. Al-Ajmi, 2019. "Ommatissus lybicus Infestation in Relation to Spatial Characteristics of Date Palm Plantations in Oman," Agriculture, MDPI, vol. 9(3), pages 1-14, March.

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