Return of Lymantria dispar dispar (gypsy moth): A case report

An invasive moth, Lymantria dispar dispar, also known as the gypsy moth, originates from Europe and first came to Ontario, Canada, in 1969. The moth is a defoliator which feeds on oak and other deciduous trees, and less commonly, conifers. Outbreaks of Lymantria dispar dispar moth infestation occur every 7–10 years with rapid expansion of the population until there is a natural collapse due to pathogens and predators. In addition to the extensive environmental impact of defoliation of the tree canopy, the Lymantria dispar dispar moth larva (caterpillar) is responsible for causing a significant cutaneous eruption in exposed individuals. In our report, we describe six cases of Lymantria dispar dispar dermatitis which occurred in Ontario, Canada, in May of 2021. It is important for dermatologists to be aware of this potential diagnosis and to be aware of local infestation in affected areas.

Defensive Nymphs of the Woolly AphidThoracaphis kashifolia(Hemiptera) on the OakQuercus glauca

Aphid nymphs with enlarged fore- and mid-legs were found from woolly colonies ofThoracaphis kashifolia(Hormaphidinae, Nipponaphidini) on leaves of the evergreenQuercus glaucain Japan. It was shown that they grasped an introduced moth larva with their legs and some inserted their stylets deep into the body. These defenders were first-instar nymphs of the alate generation and were produced by aleyrodiform apterae from early September onward. There was a large variation in the size of their forelegs. First-instar nymphs (to be alates) produced early in the season had fore-femorotrochanters shorter than those produced later. The molting rate (the percentage of pharate individuals) of the latter was very low (less than 5% to zero), suggesting their semisterility. Although first-instar nymphs with various lengths of forelegs joined to attack moth larvae, these facts indicate that an incipient caste differentiation occurs within the first-instar nymphs of the alate generation.