Interannual population dynamics of the green spruce aphid Elatobium abietinum (Walker) in France

The hypothesis that similar processes govern interannual dynamics of green spruce aphid in the UK and France, is generally supported by the application of a general discrete model. A simple model based on relatively few parameters was able to closely characterise interannual population dynamics from completely independent aerial and arboreal samples of aphids. Long‐term field population estimates of the green spruce aphid Elatobium abietinum (Walker) in France have provided the opportunity to select and evaluate the generality of a model, which was developed in the UK to explain the year‐to‐year variations in peak abundance of the aphid. The objective was to observe the influence of the local climates and disturbing climate factors on the population densities of the insect in two regions of France. The model uses climate variables and aphid population data from regular samples in the two regions that were investigated. A general discrete model was used to predict aphid population densities. The model performed well in tracking the interannual patterns of population but was less likely to predict absolute population density. To improve predictions, further account would need to be taken of additional site‐specific climate variables and the strength of overcompensating density dependence. Nevertheless, it is clear that broadly similar processes are at work in the population dynamics of this insect across its biogeographical range. Observed (solid) and predicted (open) annual maximum population densities of the green spruce aphid Elatobium abietinum (Walker) in two forests: (a) Monnaye forest (Normandy) and (b) Malaunay forest (Brittany). Population estimates were derived from spruce needle samples.