Development of an artificial diet for the winter moth (Operophtera brumata)

The winter moth, Operophtera brumata is an invasive pest that was introduced to North America in the 1930s. First identified in Nova Scotia, this small geometrid native to Europe has spread to New England. It has caused extensive defoliation of deciduous trees and shrubs. In Massachusetts a biocontrol project is underway to reduce populations by introducing a parasitic fly, Cyzenis albicans. Development of a successful artificial diet for the winter moth is critical in generating mass populations of the tachinid fly for biocontrol release. We tested various diets and diet ingredients to arrive at one that gave the best performance in terms of larval survival, pupal weight, and adult emergence. We can now rear large numbers of winter moths from the egg to adult stages on this diet. We have also investigated various ways to shorten the winter moth generation time in order to produce a year round culture.