HIGH-REALISM MODEL OF COLORADO POTATO BEETLE (COLEOPTERA, CHRYSOMELIDAE) ADAPTATION TO PERMETHRIN

A simulation model (REPO-PERM) was developed to predict the I ate of r esistance development in Colorado potato beetle, Leptinotarsa decemlin eata (Say), using field data on permethrin selection to initialize a n umber of ecological and genetic parameter values. Model explorations i ndicated that sex-linked traits, like permethrin resistance in Colorad o potato beetle, respond to directional selection faster than autosoma l traits, and that the distribution of individuals in tile plant canop y can influence selection intensity and the rate of adaptation. Model predictions for rates of adaptation to permethrin under conditions typ ical of Virginia and North Carolina are consistent with documented dev elopment of resistance in these areas.