Infestation Patterns and Climate-Based Projections for European Spongy Moth (<i>Lymantria dispar</i>) in Whirlpool Forest, Ontario, Canada.

ABSTRACT: This study investigates spongy moth (Lymantria dispar) infestation patterns in Whirlpool Forest, Ontario, offering a region-specific perspective while largely corroborating existing findings. We analyzed egg mass distribution across 43 sampling plots, relating it to tree characteristics. Results revealed a preference for red oak species, with significant egg-laying above one meter. Positive correlations were found between tree diameter and egg mass quantity (ρ = 0.458, p < 0.001 above 1 m; ρ = 0.218, p = 0.006 below 1 m). Tree health was significantly associated with egg mass presence (χ² = 6.08, p = 0.014). A climate-based regression model (R² = 0.714, p < 0.05) projected substantial increases in outbreak

SUBMITTER: Guo X 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12650152 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature