Simulation Model for the Control of Olive Fly Bactrocera Oleae Using Artificial Life Technique

Abstract

In this chapter we present a novel method for modelling of the development of olive fly—Bactrocera oleae (Gmelin)—based on artificial life technique. The fly’s artificial life model consists of a set of distinct agents, each representing one phase in the insect’s lifecycle. Each agent is defined mainly by two internal state variables: health and development. Simulation results have provided development times and mortality rates that closely resemble those observations in biological experiment. The model presented has proven to offer good results in replicating the insect’s behaviour under monitored climatic conditions. The model’s potential uses are discussed.