light brown apple moth

In discussions with friends who are fruit growers we find that climate is the greatest 'predator' of the moth in this area. However the NSW ag dept suggests different climatic conditions to ours in which the beastie reaches its peak malevolence. We are now wondering if the moth has formed different sub species across its range and whether this genetic variability/instability is part of its armory as a pest species. In more general terms does anyone know if genetic instability is considered to be greater in pest species of both plants and animals than in other species? Or is just 'out running' their predators their main 'skill' for success?
 
Margaret Healey
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