Gypsy moth invasion in North America: A simulation study of the spatial pattern and the rate of spread

► Pattern of spread of gypsy moth in North America is controlled by the impact of NPV, a common pathogen in forest insects. ► Simulations using a diffusive SI model reveal a spatial pattern that is qualitatively similar to that observed in nature. ► Values of biological parameters for the gypsy moth population dynamics are found in comprehensive literature search. ► Simulated gypsy moth spread rates are in a good agreement with observed rates for biologically reasonable parameter values.