Effects of Short-Term Phenological Changes in Leaf Suitability on the Survivorship, Growth, and Development of Gypsy Moth (Lepidoptera: Lymantriidae) Larvae

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Abstract
In this report we examine the effects of short-term phenological changes in host suitability on the performance of gypsy moth, Lymantria dispar (L.), larvae. The time frame examined was a 2-wk period during which most gypsy moth larvae hatch and feed in central Maryland. Oak supported high levels of survivorship for almost 2 wk, and beech remained suitable for young larvae for less than 1 wk; hickory and maple were intermediate. Larvae did not respond uniformly to chronological changes in foliage when fed leaves from different tree species. When fed oak, larvae tended to develop more slowly as the season progressed. This trend was less important for hickory. Also, differences in pupal weight were observed for female larvae fed different hosts—oak produced pupae of greater weight; this trend was less pronounced for male larvae. Phenological differences in host suitability may help explain associations of gypsy moth with particular tree species that are commonly observed in the field.