Identification and Management of Cydalima perspectalis (Lepidoptera: Crambidae) in North America

Boxwood (Buxus spp.) is one of the most commonly planted shrubs in urban landscapes across North America, and in Europe Buxus species comprise a significant portion of the forest understory. Cydalima perspectalis (colloquially known as the box tree moth) is a defoliator capable of causing mortality-inducing damage on boxwood in both natural and managed settings. Native to Asia, C. perspectalis is now established in both Europe and Canada and has been detected multiple times in the U.S. Here we review the life cycle and potential impact of C. perspectalis in Canada and the U.S. We discuss effective integrated management strategies and provide areas where management and detection could be improved. Rigorous detection systems will be crucial to preventing the establishment and future management of C. perspectalis in North America.