Gypsy moth
The gypsy moth (*Lymantria dispar*) is a species of moth known for its caterpillars, which can defoliate a wide range of trees and shrubs.
The gypsy moth (Lymantria dispar) is a species of moth known for its caterpillars, which can defoliate a wide range of trees and shrubs. It is native to parts of Europe and Asia and has become an invasive pest in North America and other regions. The common name has been formally replaced by spongy moth in North America.
Taxonomy and naming
Lymantria dispar is a moth in the family Erebidae. The species was long called the gypsy moth, but the preferred common name in North America is now spongy moth.
Description and life cycle
Adults and larvae vary by strain and sex, with females of the European strain being flightless. The species typically completes one generation per year, with eggs overwintering before larvae hatch in spring.
Distribution and invasion history
The species is native to parts of Europe and Asia and was introduced to North America in the 1800s. It is now established in much of northeastern North America and has also been reported in parts of Europe outside its native range.
Ecological impact
Gypsy moth caterpillars feed on leaves of many broadleaf trees and shrubs and can cause severe defoliation during outbreaks. Repeated defoliation can weaken trees and, in some cases, lead to tree mortality.
Key facts
- The species is a major defoliator of hardwood trees and shrubs.
- Its larvae, or caterpillars, feed on many host plants, including oaks.
- It was introduced to North America in the 19th century and spread widely.
- The European strain has flightless females, while the Asian strain includes flying females.
- It is considered an invasive forest pest in parts of North America.
The species is established in parts of Canada and is monitored as an invasive forest pest because its caterpillars can defoliate hardwood trees and affect forests and ornamental plantings.
Frequently asked questions
What is the gypsy moth now called?
What does the gypsy moth eat?
Where is the gypsy moth native to?
Why is it considered a pest?
When was it introduced to North America?
References
- Natural Resources Canada — https://tidcf.nrcan.gc.ca/en/insects/factsheet/9506Supports: Scientific name, pest status, native/introduced history, and host impact.
- Royal Horticultural Society — https://www.rhs.org.uk/biodiversity/gypsy-mothSupports: Current preferred common name spongy moth and tree-defoliation impact.
- Forest Research — https://www.forestresearch.gov.uk/tools-and-resources/fthr/pest-and-disease-resources/gypsy-moth-lymantria-dispar/Supports: Defoliator status, distribution, and native range in Europe.
- National Invasive Species Information Center — https://www.invasivespeciesinfo.gov/terrestrial/invertebrates/spongy-mothSupports: Former common name, invasive spread, and threat to deciduous trees.
- Alaska Department of Fish and Game — https://www.adfg.alaska.gov/index.cfm?adfg=invasiveprofiles.gypsymoth_characteristicsSupports: Life cycle, egg masses, larval development, and female flightlessness in the European strain.
- Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations — https://www.fao.org/4/i0640e/i0640e10p.pdfSupports: Outbreak potential, host range, and differences between Asian and European strains.