Language selection

Search

Spongy moth (Lymantria dispar dispar)

Changes to common names

The common names for some insects are under review internationally. Spongy moth is the new common name for Lymantria dispar dispar, previously known as European gypsy moth, EGM or LDD moth. This change does not affect the French name.

The common name for the group of moths (Lymantria dispar asiatica, Lymantria dispar japonica, Lymantria umbrosa, Lymantria postalba and Lymantria albescens) referred to as AGM (formerly Asian gypsy moth) has changed to Flighted Spongy Moth Complex (FSMC).

Image of two LDD moths. The male is brown and the female is white.

The spongy moth (Lymantria dispar dispar) is an invasive pest that can destroy trees by eating their leaves. It is found in Ontario, Quebec, New Brunswick, Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island. The spongy moth has been detected in British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan and Manitoba, although introductions of the insect have been detected and eradicated.

What to do

If you find the spongy moth in western Canada or Newfoundland and Labrador, please report it.

What information is available

Directives

Notices

Additional information

Date modified: