ESTIMATION OF DISPERSAL DISTANCES FOR COCHLIOMYIA-HOMINIVORAX (DIPTERA, CALLIPHORIDAE)

Quantification of dispersal distances is critical in modelling the potential invasion of Cochliomyia hominivorax (Coquerel) into Australia. This study draws together a number of trials on dispersal of screwworm fly. While different in many aspects, data proved to be of a similar distributional shape, well described by the Cauchy distribution. Population dispersal distances were shown to depend on sex (females disperse farther than males), and environmental favorability as measured by habitat and availability of hosts. Under favorable conditions, the majority of female screwworm flies move <3 km, but in unfavorable habitats, movement can be 8 times greater.