Dynamic Analysis of Siberian Silkmoth Outbreak in Mountain-taiga Forest Based on Satellite Data

Siberian silkmoth outbreaks in taiga forest were monitored based on SPOT-Vegetation satellite data to create a 3D, high-resolution relief model. The temporal and spatial dynamics of a pest outbreak in the Sayan Mountains (Siberia) were analyzed. A good agreement was found between on-ground and remotely obtained data in the outbreak area. The outbreak began at an elevation of similar to 420-500 m (Ed-but in the conclusion you have "of similar to 400-540 m"; which is correct?) with slope steepness up to 5 degrees (Ed-but in the discussion you have 4 degrees; which is correct?). The outbreak in its development spread to an elevation range of similar to 450-540 (Edbut in the discussion you have "of similar to 400-540 m"; which is correct?) m with slope steepness up to 15 degrees. A "splitting effect" (bimodality) of elevation distribution was observed, due to exhaustion of the silkmoth initial food base and insect spreading to neighboring territories on the upward and downward slopes.