The migration of insect vectors of plant and animal viruses.

Publisher Summary This chapter summarizes the conceptual framework that distinguishes migration from other types of movement, and briefly outlines some of the methodologies used to study long-range migration of insect vectors. Several case studies of vector migration, particularly ones illustrating recent progress have been presented. Emphasis has been given to the interactions between migratory flight behavior and atmospheric processes that control the ascent, horizontal movement, aerial concentration or dispersion, and the eventual landing of the vectors. Attention has also been given to aspects of local post-migratory host-seeking flights that result in the inoculation of the virus into new hosts. Priorities for further research on insect vectors have been suggested, which are needed for the formulation or improvement of disease control strategies. There are new field or laboratory tests for vector infectivity utilizing nucleic acid-based methods that are more sensitive than the traditional methods using serology or transmission tests. Further investigations on vector movement are, therefore, largely dependent on funding and research priorities rather than technical constraints per se. Some of the techniques are undoubtedly expensive or have high running costs, but ultimately, the highest costs are probably those of establishing and retaining a highly skilled multi-disciplinary team for a suitably long period.