The Application of Earth Observation Data to Desert Locust Risk Management: A Literature Review

Abstract

The desert locust is documented as one of the most destructive polyphagous plant pests that require preventive or proactive management practices due to its phase polyphenism, rapid breeding, transnational migration, and heavy feeding behaviour. Desert locust situation analysis, forecasting and early warning are complex due to the systemic interaction of biological, meteorological, and geographical factors that play different roles in facilitating the survival, breeding and migration of the pest. This article seeks to elucidate the factors that affect desert locust distribution and review the application of earth observation (EO) data in explaining the pest’s infestations and impact. The review presents details concerning the application of EO data to understand factors that affect desert locust breeding and migration, elaborates on impact assessment through vegetation change detection and discusses modelling techniques that can support the effective management of the pest. The review reveals that the application of EO technology is inclined in favour of desert locust habitat suitability assessment with a limited financial quantification of losses. The review also finds a progressive advancement in the use of multi-modelling approaches to address identified gaps and reduce computational errors. Moreover, the review recognises great potential in applications of EO tools, products and services for anticipatory action against desert locusts to ensure resource use efficiency and environmental conservation.