Quarantine issued after ‘Highly destructive, invasive’ pest found in Pennsylvania

(WTAJ) — A highly destructive and invasive pest has been found in Pennsylvania — and it’s not the spotted lanternfly.

The box tree moth is new to North America and was recently found in Pennsylvania. The Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture said the insect was reportedly seen in two cemeteries in Erie County.

The quarantine is said to help businesses and homeowners recognize the insect, learn how to control it and keep it from spreading across the state.

It’s important to note that the insect does not harm humans or threaten our food supply, Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding said.

“This insect does not harm humans or threaten our food supply,” Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding said. “It threatens livelihoods in our nursery and landscape industry, as well as the parks and gardens that enrich our communities and feed tourism dollars into our economy. Protecting communities and businesses from economic loss is a top priority of the Shapiro Administration.”

The box moth feeds on boxwoods, often used as topiaries and hedges in public gardens, parks and conservatories, which the department said are some of the oldest and most popular in the country.

Boxwoods are also the largest-selling evergreen shrub in America. The moth spreads mostly through shipping and sales of infected boxwoods. It was previously found in Deleware, Michigan, New York, Ohio and Ontario, Canada.

Like the spotted lanternfly, early detection is key to preventing the spread of these moths and significant damage to boxwoods.

Pennsylvania’s nursery and landscaping industry generates $4.1 billion for the state economy annually and is responsible for more than 63,000 jobs. Pennsylvania leads the nation in the number of floriculture businesses – those that produce garden and bedding plants, potted plants, and cut flowers.

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If you suspect the insect on your boxwoods, please report it to badbug@pa.gov or 1-888-253-7189. Please indicate which life stage was found, if damage was present, and include photos if possible.

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