Box tree moth

Systematic position: The box tree moth (lat. Cydalima perspectalis, formerly Parotis perspectalis) belongs to the order Lepidoptera and the family Crambidae. It is a significant invasive pest that originated in East Asia and has caused severe damage to boxwood populations across various regions.

Affected crops: The species primarily feeds on Buxus plants. It is highly host-specific, and in the absence of chemical or biological control, it can cause total defoliation and death of both ornamental and wild boxwood shrubs.

Biology and lifecycle: The moth completes multiple generations per year depending on the climate. Females lay eggs in clusters on the undersides of leaves. After hatching, the larvae undergo several developmental stages (instars) while feeding voraciously on the foliage before pupating within protective silken cocoons.

Nature of damage and pest status: The larvae cause extensive defoliation by consuming the leaves, leaving only the midribs or completely stripping the plant. In addition to leaf damage, they may feed on the bark of young shoots, leading to girdling and the eventual death of the affected plant sections.

Control measures: Integrated pest management (IPM) is crucial for controlling this pest:

• Constant monitoring of boxwood shrubs from early spring onwards.
• Manual removal of larval colonies and pupae from the plants.
• Application of microbial insecticides based on Bacillus thuringiensis.
• Use of systemic insecticides during heavy infestations to ensure long-term protection.
• Deployment of pheromone traps to monitor adult populations and interfere with mating.