About Lymantria dispar Linnaeus, 1758
Lymantria dispar, commonly known as the gypsy moth or spongy moth, is a moth species in the family Erebidae. It is native to Europe and Asia, and is divided into several distinct subspecies. Two subspecies, L. d. dispar and L. d. japonica, can be clearly and unambiguously identified. This species has been introduced to multiple other continents, and now occurs as an invasive species in Africa, North America, and South America. Its polyphagous larvae feed on a wide range of deciduous and coniferous trees. During years when the species reproduces in large numbers, the larvae can cause severe damage to host trees. Because of this impact, Lymantria dispar is included on the list of the world's 100 worst invasive alien species.
