Name Change for Lymantria dispar (Gypsy Moth) to Spongy Moth
EAB University webinar presentation by Jonathan Walter, University of Virginia.
In July 2021, the Entomological Society of America decertified “gypsy moth” as the official common name of the non-native forest pest Lymantria dispar in the United States. This decision set in motion a process to rename the species. While renaming species is not uncommon, this case is particularly noteworthy and complex due to L. dispar’s status as a high-profile pest with major research, regulatory, management, and public outreach activities. The proposed new common name, “spongy moth,” which derives from common names used in its native range and francophone Canada and refers to the sponge-like characteristics of L. dispar egg masses. This presentation addresses why a new common name was needed, the process for selecting a new name, and next steps for implementing the name change.
