Proof-of-Principle That Cellular Automata Can Be Used to Predict Infestation Risk by Reticulitermes grassei (Blattodea: Isoptera)

Over the past few decades, species distribution modelling has been increasingly used to monitor invasive species. Studies herein propose use Cellular Automata (CA), not only model of a potentially but also infer potential method in risk prediction Reticulitermes grassei infestation. The test area was mainland Portugal, for which an available presence-only dataset used. This is typical type, resulting from either studies or infestation reports. Subterranean termite urban distributions Portugal 1970 2001 were simulated, and results compared with known records both (the publication date models R. Portugal) 2020. reported able predict widespread presence grassei, showing its as viable tool wooden structures, providing collection appropriate variables. Such robust simulation can prove be highly valuable decision-making process concerning pest management.