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FOREST TENT CATERPILLAR
Mature larva of the FOREST TENT CATERPILLAR.
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| Other |
Tent caterpillar |
| Species |
Malacosoma disstria |
| Common Hosts: |
Black tupelo Nyssa sylvatica
Oaks Quercus spp.
Sweetgum Liquidambar styraciflua
Water tupelo Nyssa aquatica
Plums Prunus spp.
Other hardwoods |
Description |
Adult -- light brown head and body; front pair of wings same color plus 4 angled dark brown stripes; wingspan approximately 32 mm.
Pupa -- size of adult; reddish-brown; enclosed in a pale yellow cocoon.
Larva -- size variable, approximately 60 mm long when mature; light blue head mottled with black, brown body with yellowish-white keyhole spots on back bordered by pale blue lines, body brown; sparse white hairs.
Egg -- shiny black mass cemented around twigs (may contain 100-400 eggs). |
Importance |
Oak and gums are the most preferred and severely defoliated trees. Several consecutive years of severe defoliation will stress trees. In combination with other stress factors, death may result. |
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Adult moths emerge from cocoons in late spring, close to time of oak leaf expansion or unfolding. The larvae feed together initially, but then disperse to other trees. Pupation occurs between leaves or in the soil or soil litter. |
| Number of Generations |
1 generation per year. |
Signs
of Infestation |
Loss of foliage. Falling frass (dark pellets of caterpillar excrement). Caterpillars clustered on lower trunks and branches of trees. Branch dieback and/or crown thinning. |
Control |
- Predators, parasites, disease, and unfavorable weather usually keep caterpillar populations at low levels. Outbreaks do occur, but usually subside in 1 or 2 years. Prune small branches that have egg masses and destroy. Promote tree vigor and health to aid in the recovery from defoliation. Use an approved insecticide for high-value trees.
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Bulletin No. 196-A | Printed October, 1983 | Contact the
Forest Health Section 
