A variogram-based analysis of insect wing images to detect outbreaks: a case study of a pine looper (Bupalus piniarius L.) population

The coloration of forest insects changes as their population density increases or decreases. Using the geostatistical method allowed us to determine the population dynamics’ phase of the pine looper from images of insects’ wings. The color and pattern of the insects’ wings can be successfully used as diagnostic features in determining the phase of the population dynamics.