Analysis of the echoes of migrating insects detected by Beijing Doppler weather radar

Author of the article:JIAO Re-Guang1, 4, 5** ZHANG Zhi2, 3** SHI Guang-Yu1 ZHANG Yun-Hui2***

Author's Workplace：1. Institute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100029, China; 2. State Key Laboratory for Biology of Plant Disease and Insect Pests, Institute of Plant Protection, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100193, China; 3. Beijing Plant Protection Station, Beijing 100029, China; 4. Beijing-Tianjin–Hebei Environmental Meteorological Forecasting and Warning Center, Beijing 100089, China; 5. University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China

Key Words：Doppler weather radar, clear air echo, migrating insects, entomological radar

Abstract：

 [Objectives]  To determine the feasibility of using Beijing Doppler weather radar to observe migratory insect pests. [Methods]  the characteristics of clear air echoes and related factors were assessed from Beijing CINRAD-SA Doppler radar data and Wind profiler radar data with the related program in computer. [Results]  Beijing CINRAD-SA Doppler radar can detect clear air echoes caused by migratory insects. The number of clear air echoes detected accorded with the behavioral rhythm of nocturnal insects; taking off in dawn and landing sunrise. Clear air echoes of migratory insects appeared from March to November. There were 2 peaks during this period. The magnitude of echoes were closely related to wind direction. When the weather system was appropriate, layer and collective orientation behaviors were apparent on Beijing CINRAD-SA Doppler radar. Rain can interrupt insect migration. [Conclusion]  Beijing CINRAD-SA Doppler radar is of great potential in observing insect migration. To provide better forecasting information of migratory insect pests, agricultural departments should develop an entomological radar network in future. In additional, such networks can be augmented by weather radar systems.