A MATRIX MODEL FOR STUDYING TSETSE-FLY POPULATIONS

Some characteristics of tsetse fly population dynamics were investigat ed using a matrix model. To take into account the peculiarities of the tsetse fly life cycle, the classic Leslie model was modified. Our mod el integrated the physiological age group of Glossina females, the pup al and adult survival rate and the pupal life span. The limit of the g rowth rate was studied and the results were satisfactory when compared with data of tsetse fly mass rearing. The effect of adult and pupal s urvival rates on the growth rate was examined and confirmed the import ance of adult survival. The sensitivity analysis showed that the growt h rate was particularly sensitive to change in the survival rate of yo ung nulliparous females. This matrix model, directly accessible to the experimenter, enhanced our understanding of tsetse population dynamic s.