Big data modelling and bark beetle attacks
Data modelling is the process of creating a visual representation of how data is organized, stored, and accessed within a database system or application.
Big data modelling is like solving a very complex puzzle with many different pieces, using special tools and computers to find patterns in a huge pile of pieces.
This process involves defining data structures, relationships, and attributes to ensure efficient data management and retrieval.
Data modelling aids in understanding data flow, optimizing database design, and facilitating effective communication between developers, analysts, and stakeholders in information systems development.
European spruce bark beetle
The European spruce bark beetle mainly attacks Norway spruce. Outbreaks can kill large numbers of trees, seriously affecting ecosystems and leading to economic losses in forests managed for timber production.
Bark beetle is a serious pest in temperate and boreal forests. New research pinpoints some of the factors that increase outbreak risk, especially in the context of more frequent droughts.
Why bark beetle is killing so many spruce?
The bark beetle has caused extensive damage to spruce trees in recent years due to a combination of factors. Warmer temperatures and milder winters create favourable conditions for the beetle’s population growth.
Stressed or weakened spruce trees, often a result of drought, provide breeding grounds. In dense monoculture forests, the beetles can easily spread. Climate change, forest management practices, and the interconnectedness of ecosystems contribute to the ongoing infestations.
Big data modelling indicate risk of bark beetle attacks
Big data modelling can help predict the risk of bark beetle attacks by analysing various factors. It considers historical climate data, tree health, forest density, and beetle population dynamics.
Through sophisticated algorithms, it identifies patterns and correlations, enabling the assessment of vulnerable areas and predicting potential outbreaks.
This proactive approach aids forest management decisions, allowing timely interventions such as targeted tree removal or preventive measures to mitigate the impact of bark beetle infestations.
Interesting findings was, that the impacts of attacks during drought continue into subsequent years, leaving clusters of trees in proximity to attacked areas with a high susceptibility to attack in years with normal weather.
