Hyphantria

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Hyphantria: //hɪˈfæntɹiə//

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Summary

The fall webworm (Hyphantria cunea) is a moth known for its webbed nest made by larvae on hardwood trees. It is a polyphagous pest that affects numerous deciduous species and has expanded its range globally.

Physical Characteristics

The adult fall webworm has a wingspan of approximately 30-42 mm, is generally white-colored with possible dark markings, and is quite hairy with bright yellow or orange patches on the front legs.

Identification Tips

Look for the characteristic webbed nests on tree branches created by the larvae; the webs are concentrated at the tips of branches and appear messier than those of tent caterpillars.

Habitat

Prefers deciduous trees for feeding and nesting; typically found in woods, gardens, and urban areas where host plants are available.

Distribution

Native to North America, ranging from Canada to Mexico; introduced to Europe, Japan, and parts of Asia including Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, and China, making it holarctic in distribution.

Diet

Feeds on a wide variety of deciduous trees, over 636 species recorded; preferred hosts include pecan, black walnut, American elm, hickory, fruit trees, and maples.

Life Cycle

One generation per year in northern North America; two or more generations in southern regions, with larvae appearing in late summer to early fall.

Reproduction

Eggs are laid in hair-covered clusters on the underside of leaves, hatching in about a week. Males are available for mating only for about 30-60 minutes per day.

Predators

Monomorium minimum, Vespula spp., Coleomegilla maculata, and Rogas hyphantriae are known predators.

Ecosystem Role

Considered a pest, particularly in urban areas; contributes to the food web as prey for various predators.

Economic Impact

Considered a pest, especially to commercial tree services and arboriculturists; may defoliate trees but does not harm otherwise healthy ones.

Cultural Significance

Known colloquially as 'fuzzy trees' in Southern States due to their appearance when heavily infested.

Collecting Methods

• Physical removal of webs
• Pheromone traps

Preservation Methods

• Drying specimens
• Alcohol preservation

Similar Taxa

• Tent caterpillars
• Other Erebidae family members

Misconceptions

Often confused with tent caterpillars; fall webworm webs are messier and appear on the tips of branches, unlike tent caterpillars that make more structured webs in unions of branches.

Tags

• Moth
• Pest
• Lepidoptera
• Invasive Species
• Erebidae