Box Tree Moth vs Pitted Ambrosia Beetle
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Box Tree Moth | Pitted Ambrosia Beetle |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Cydalima perspectalis | Cnesinus strigicollis |
| Order | Lepidoptera | Coleoptera |
| Family | Crambidae | Curculionidae |
| Size | 35-45 mm wingspan | 2-3mm |
| Habitat | Gardens | Gardens |
| Diet | Wood Feeders | Fungus Feeders |
| Regions | Native to East Asia; invasive in Europe and North America | North America, South America |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Box Tree Moth
A white moth with iridescent brown wing borders that has become one of Europe's most destructive invasive species. Its caterpillars can completely defoliate ornamental boxwood hedges.
Did You Know?
Since arriving in Europe around 2007, it has devastated centuries-old boxwood gardens across the continent.
Pitted Ambrosia Beetle
A tiny dark brown bark beetle that cultivates fungal gardens inside its tunnels. It introduces ambrosia fungi into the wood which it and its larvae eat.
Did You Know?
It is one of many beetle species that practice true agriculture cultivating fungal crops inside tree tunnels for food.