Scarce Chocolate-tip

Systematic position. The Scarce Chocolate-tip (Clostera anastomosis) belongs to the order Lepidoptera, family Notodontidae. This moth species is a well-known pest that impacts various deciduous trees, specifically those belonging to the Salicaceae family, causing noticeable damage to both forest plantations and ornamental trees.

Host plants. The primary hosts for this species are members of the Populus (poplar) and Salix (willow) genera. Larval feeding on these plants can lead to severe canopy thinning, particularly in regions where the climate favors multiple generations of the moth per season.

Biology and lifecycle. The life cycle involves two generations per year. The insect overwinters as late-instar larvae within spun leaf shelters. Adult moths emerge in late spring for the first generation and mid-summer for the second. Eggs are typically laid in batches on the underside of leaves, where the gregarious larvae begin feeding upon hatching.

Damage and economic impact. Larvae are voracious defoliators. Younger caterpillars skeletonize the leaves, while mature ones consume the entire leaf tissue, leaving only the midribs. Repeated or heavy infestations lead to premature leaf drop, reduced photosynthetic capacity, and overall weakened tree health, which hinders growth and lowers the survival rate of nursery stocks.

Control measures. Integrated Pest Management (IPM) strategies are essential for effective control:

• Targeted application of biological control agents, such as Bacillus thuringiensis, during the early larval stages.
• Application of systemic insecticides if pest density exceeds the local economic injury threshold.
• Cultural practices including the removal and destruction of infested leaf litter during autumn to reduce overwintering populations.
• Encouraging the presence of natural predators, such as parasitoid wasps and birds, which contribute to biological suppression.