Landscape

Gypsy Moth Control and the Diana Fritillary (Speyeria diana): A Carolina Landscape in Conflict

The Gypsy Moth is an exotic pest and invasive species that feeds on the leaves in the middle branches and crowns of tress, and while populations tend to persist at low levels in some areas for quite some time sudden and as yet unexplained population explosions can lead to massive defoliations (Liebhold 2003). The Speyeria diana, commonly known as the Diana fritillary, is a butterfly species that inhabits the northwest counties of South Carolina and certain surrounding areas, with recent evidence suggesting that populations might be more widespread than previously thought; unlike many other fritillary species the Diana fritillary primarily populates wooded and shaded areas (Scholtens n.d.). The overlap of these two species is fraught with complications that threaten the survival of the Diana fritillary.

Environmental Issues

There are several significant environmental issues that need...
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