Cartographie des zones de reproduction et de grégarisation du criquet pèlerin au Tchad

A recent study has identified three key zones in Chad—Kanem/lac Tchad, Batha, and Ennedi—as critical areas for the reproduction and gregarization (swarming) of the desert locust (Schistocerca gregaria), a major agricultural pest. These findings suggest that Kanem/lac Tchad may represent a new focal area for locust swarm formation, expanding our understanding of their spatial distribution. Researchers analyzed over 7,000 historical observations (1965–2017) using spatial density smoothing techniques to map seasonal patterns during invasion and remission phases. While the Tibesti massif remains a known hotspot, reports from this region have declined due to security challenges. The study highlights the need for more consistent monitoring to assess potential shifts in locust distribution over time.

Kayalto, M., Idrissi Hassani, M., Lecoq, M., Gay, P.-E., & Piou, C. (2020). Cartographie des zones de reproduction et de grégarisation du criquet pèlerin au Tchad. Cahiers Agricultures, 29, 14. https://doi.org/10.1051/cagri/2020011