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Title: Aerobiology

Author
item Westbrook, John

Submitted to: World Meteorological Organization
Publication Type: Book / Chapter
Publication Acceptance Date: 12/9/2007
Publication Date: 12/1/2010
Citation: Westbrook, J.K. 2010. Aerobiology. Guide to Agricultural Meteorological Practices. World Meteorological Organization. WMO-No. 134, 2010 edition. Geneva, Switzerland. p. 15-1 - 15-15.

Interpretive Summary: Aerobiology is the study of the airborne distribution of living organisms, as well as particles and gases, which may enhance or diminish animal health and crop production. This chapter describes relevant spatial and time scales for investigations of aerobiological events such as dispersal of plant pathogens and pest insects. Examples of pest dispersal are presented along with descriptions of associated simulation models. Accounting for aerobiological processes will increase the value of integrated pest management programs by improving methods that predict patterns of dispersing populations of pests and beneficial organisms.

Technical Abstract: Aerobiology is the study of the airborne distribution of living organisms, as well as particles and gases, which may enhance or diminish animal health and crop production. This chapter describes relevant spatial and time scales for investigations of aerobiological events such as dispersal of plant pathogens and pest insects. Examples of pest dispersal are presented along with descriptions of associated simulation models. Accounting for aerobiological processes will increase the value of integrated pest management programs by improving methods that predict patterns of dispersing populations of pests and beneficial organisms.