SIMPLIFIED GYPSY-MOTH MODEL SYSTEM - MODEL DEFINITION AND DESCRIPTION

A simple discrete Lotka-Volterra type model of the gypsy moth (Lymantr ia dispar L.) was developed using the more detailed Gypsy Moth Life Sy stem Model and related information. The tree equation is derived from the diameter growth of a gap model, extended to include crowding effec ts of stocking. The gypsy moth equation tracks eggs from generation to generation and translates this to subsequent larval density to predic t food requirements of the population each year. The model explores th e effect of gypsy moth feeding on diameter growth of trees and the ava ilable foliage on population dynamics. This model exhibits an exceptio nal range of behaviors. We use analytic techniques to explore the base s for these behaviors.