Hackberry moth

The Hackberry moth (Selepa celtis) is a species of moth belonging to the order Lepidoptera, family Nolidae. This insect is primarily known as a specialist herbivore that targets species of the Celtis genus (hackberry trees). Due to its specific food requirements, it is most frequently found in areas where these trees serve as common ornamental or forest species.

The host plants affected by this pest include various hackberry species. The moth poses a particular threat in urban landscapes and nurseries, where the concentration of Celtis trees allows for rapid population growth. While rarely causing tree mortality in mature specimens, the economic impact stems from significant defoliation and the reduction of the tree's aesthetic and ecological value.

The life cycle follows a pattern typical for this family, consisting of egg, larval, pupal, and adult stages. The larvae are the primary damaging stage, feeding voraciously on the foliage. Depending on the local climate, the species can complete multiple generations within a single growing season, which significantly increases the risk of heavy infestation by mid-summer.

Damage symptoms start with small, irregular holes in the leaves as young larvae feed. As they grow, they move toward consuming entire leaf blades, often leaving only the midribs and larger veins intact. Severe infestations can result in total canopy loss, leading to premature leaf drop and weakening the overall vigor of the tree, making it susceptible to secondary stressors.

Effective management requires a combination of monitoring and intervention. Scouting for egg masses or young larvae on the undersides of leaves is crucial during the early growing season. Biological control using microbial insecticides, such as Bacillus thuringiensis, is highly effective and minimizes negative impacts on non-target beneficial insects. Chemical control should be reserved for high-threshold infestations.

• Regular inspection of the foliage during the spring and early summer.
• Use of pheromone or light traps to monitor adult flight activity.
• Encouraging natural predator populations like birds and predatory wasps.
• Targeted spray application during the early larval instar stages.