Endromidae

These pests primarily target deciduous trees. Their host range is relatively narrow, focusing on birch (Betula) and alder (Alnus) species. In some regions, they may also be found on lime trees or hazel. While they are often considered forest insects, their presence in shelterbelts near agricultural crops requires monitoring.

The biology of Endromidae involves a univoltine life cycle. Adult moths emerge early in the spring, often when temperatures are still quite low. Females deposit eggs in clusters on the twigs of host plants. Larvae feed throughout late spring and early summer before descending to the soil, where they pupate in a cocoon and remain dormant until the following spring.

Damage caused by this pest is primarily defoliation. As the caterpillars grow, their nutritional requirements increase, leading to significant loss of leaf mass. A heavy infestation can severely stress young trees, leading to stunted growth, loss of vigor, and increased susceptibility to secondary environmental stressors or diseases.

Control strategies should focus on integrated pest management (IPM) practices. Key measures include:

• Soil cultivation around host trees to disrupt pupation sites.
• Monitoring pheromone traps for adult activity tracking.
• Application of selective biological insecticides targeting young larvae to minimize impact on beneficial entomofauna.

Chemical intervention should be considered only as a last resort when monitoring data indicates that the population density exceeds the economic injury level. Maintaining healthy tree stands through proper silvicultural practices remains the best long-term defense against Endromidae outbreaks.