Forest Tent Caterpillar Moth vs Carpenterworm Moth
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Forest Tent Caterpillar Moth | Carpenterworm Moth |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Malacosoma disstria | Prionoxystus robiniae |
| Order | Lepidoptera | Lepidoptera |
| Family | Lasiocampidae | Cossidae |
| Size | 25–35 mm wingspan | 40–75 mm wingspan |
| Habitat | Forests | Forests |
| Diet | Herbivores | Wood Feeders |
| Regions | North America | North America |
| Conservation | Not Evaluated | Not Evaluated |
Forest Tent Caterpillar Moth
A widespread North American moth whose caterpillars defoliate vast areas of hardwood forest. Despite the name, they form silken mats rather than true tents.
Did You Know?
Outbreaks can defoliate millions of hectares of forest, though healthy trees usually recover with new leaves.
Carpenterworm Moth
A large North American moth whose larvae bore into the heartwood of oaks, elms, and other hardwoods. It is the most destructive wood-boring moth in eastern forests.
Did You Know?
Larvae create tunnels up to 25 mm wide and take three to four years to complete development.