Factors of locust outbreak in Zaporizhzhia region of Ukraine

Goal. Phytosanitary monitoring of locusts in the southern regions of Ukraine, identifying the species composition, distribution boundaries, and establishing the causes that led to the outbreak. Methods. Field entomological research using a net, route observations, analysis of meteorological conditions, survey of the state of agrocenoses and adjacent natural stations on the territory of the Kushuhum territorial community, Zaporizhzhia district, Zaporizhzhia region. Results. A comprehensive study of locusts in the areas of their outbreak in 2025 was conducted. The prevalence of migratory locusts (Locusta migratoria L.) was determined. It was found that the key factor in the outbreak was anthropogenic impact, in particular, the formation of vast reed thickets after the destruction of the Kakhovka hydroelectric power station dam. Favorable temperature conditions and restrictions on protective measures additionally caused the outbreak. Conclusions. The 2025 outbreak of Locusta migratoria was caused by a combination of factors, the most important of which are changes in the landscape after the destruction of the Kakhovka hydroelectric power station dam and weather conditions favorable for pest development.