Retrospective Analysis of a Large-Scale Gypsy Moth Outbreak in Hungary Combining Multi-Source Satellite and In Situ Data

Molnár, Tamás and Móricz, Norbert and Csókáné Hirka, Anikó and Csóka, György and Kern, Anikó (2025) Retrospective Analysis of a Large-Scale Gypsy Moth Outbreak in Hungary Combining Multi-Source Satellite and In Situ Data. FORESTS, 16 (9). ISSN 1999-4907

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Abstract

Gypsy (or spongy) moth (Lymantria dispar) outbreaks have imposed significant threats to European forests for centuries. While traditional field-based research has provided detailed insights, it remains time-consuming, labour-intensive, and spatially limited. With the advancement of Earth observation satellite technology, forest monitoring has become more efficient and flexible. This study examined the impact of the most extensive gypsy moth outbreak (2003–2006) on the forest dynamics in Hungary using Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS)-derived indices: the Normalised Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI), Standardised NDVI (Z NDVI), and Leaf Area Index (LAI). Our results show that while the gypsy moth population in Hungary peaked in 2004, based on light trap data, and in 2005, according to field damage reports, the most severe defoliation occurred in 2005 and 2006, as detected by satellite-based decreases in the NDVI and LAI. MODIS-based vegetation indices proved effective in quantifying the extent and severity of defoliation, showing temporal and spatial patterns that aligned with ground observations. The LAI and NDVI metrics also captured varying degrees of defoliation and partial recovery. These findings underscore the value of integrating satellite data with field observations to improve early warning systems and enhance the forecasting and management of gypsy moth outbreaks.

Tudományterület / tudományág

agricultural sciences > forestry and wildlife management
engineering and technology > agricultural engineering

Faculty

Not relevant

Institution

Soproni Egyetem

Item Type:	Article
SWORD Depositor:	Teszt Sword
Depositing User:	Csaba Horváth
Identification Number:	MTMT:36339248
Date Deposited:	02 Oct 2025 09:10
Last Modified:	02 Oct 2025 09:10
URI:	http://publicatio.uni-sopron.hu/id/eprint/3744

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