Abstract
Locusts (Orthoptera: Acridoidea) constitute a threat to agriculture and livelihoods in many countries globally. The economic, social, and environmental consequences of these highly migratory pests are so substantial that they are treated as a national priority by many countries and several international commissions have been established to unite efforts. The start of 2020 was marked by the continued South American locust upsurge—the first major upsurge of this species in 60 years, as well as the onset of a dangerous desert locust invasion now extending from Kenya to India—the first many of these countries have seen in decades. This special issue aims to shed light on the overarching questions: What have we learned from historical outbreaks, what research is ongoing and what is needed, how serious is the current threat, and how should the world respond to plagues today? Articles in this special issue may address locust issues concerning any of the following: biotic and abiotic factors that affect population and/or behavioral dynamics including the potential role of climate change, surveys and monitoring, forecasting, management technologies, governance including the capacity of affected countries to respond, the impact of outbreaks (economic, social, and/or environmental), or related research. Specific questions authors may wish to consider include: What are the primary drivers of the current outbreaks and is climate change involved? Are recommended preventative strategies effective and what are the constraints to their application? Is there a possibility to use biological alternatives to chemical pesticides? What additional research is needed to better manage these insects? Papers addressing similar topics for other transboundary migratory pests are also welcome.