Chrysoclista linneella (Formerly Glyphipterix linneella)

Adult linden bark borer moth. Photo: Dr. Jennifer Forman Orth, MA Department of Agricultural Resources.
Scientific Name: 
Chrysoclista linneella (Formerly Glyphipterix linneella)
Common Name: 
Linden Bark Borer Moth
Growing Degree Days (GDD's): 
570–720, Base 50F, March 1st Start Date (Source: Bob Childs, UMass Extension.)
Host Plant(s) Common Name (Scientific Name): 
European linden (Tilia x europaea)
Insect Description: 

This genus of small, brightly colored moths have larvae who bore into the bark of deciduous trees. The linden bark borer moth is a native of Europe. It was first reported in North America from specimens collected in New York City in 1928 (Klots, 1942). Reports in additional states include New Jersey, Connecticut, Vermont, and near Boston, Massachusetts. This species has also been reported in parts of Canada. Larvae of the linden bark borer moth feed in the bark of European linden (Tilia x europea). Larvae excrete rusty colored frass as they feed. Pupation is reported to occur in the early spring, once larvae reach approximately 6 mm. in length. Reports indicate that adults emerge and may be seen flying approximately from May to August. However, adults may fly in early June in Massachusetts for 7 to 10 days (Robert Childs, UMass Extension). In Canada, abundant numbers of adults have been reported, indicating that clouds of hundreds or thousands of the adult moths can be seen flying during the day around infested trees. A single generation is reported, however little about the biology of this species is known. The bark of its host becomes honeycombed by the feeding larvae - and they can cause this damage from ground level on the trunk through high in the crown of the tree (Majka, 2005).

Damage to Host: 

Larvae feed in the bark of European lindens, primarily, and cause damage that makes the inner bark look like a honeycomb. In some reports, even the outer bark is severely damaged to the point where it can be crumbled by hand. Long and short-term impacts of this insect on its host need to be investigated (Majka, 2005). Further study to understand the extent of the impact of this insect on its hosts in Massachusetts is also needed in order to confirm pest status.

Monitoring: 

Look for reddish, fine sawdust in lower bark furrows, especially in May–June on European linden.

Cultural Management: 

Information about cultural management options for the linden bark borer moth is currently unavailable. Further study is necessary. 

Natural Enemies & Biological Control: 

Information about natural enemies and biological control options for the linden bark borer moth is currently unavailable. Further study is necessary. 

Chemical Management: 

Abamectin (NL) (Labeled for “Lepidopterous insects” and other borers.)

Acephate (larvae) (NL) (Labeled for “Lepidopterous larvae” and other borers.)

Azadirachtin (NL) (Labeled for “borers”.)

Chlorantraniliprole (larvae) (NL) (Labeled for “Lepidopterous larvae” and other borers.)

Chlorpyrifos (N) (Labeled for “Lepidopterous larvae” and other borers.)

Cyantraniliprole (NL) (Labeled for “caterpillars, larvae” and other borers.)

Imidacloprid (L) (Labeled for “larvae” and other borers.)

Neem oil (NL) (Labeled for “caterpillars” and "borers".)

Permethrin (L) (Labeled for “borers”, including those of other lepidopterous species.)

Spinosad (NL) (Labeled for “Lepidopterous larvae” and “borers”.)

Tebufenozide (larvae) (NL) (Labeled for “caterpillars” and “Lepidopterous larvae”.)

Notes: 

When used in a nursery setting, chlorpyrifos is for quarantine use only.

Active ingredients that may be applied systemically include: abamectin (injection), acephate (injection), azadirachtin (injection, soil drench), chlorantraniliprole (soil drench), cyantraniliprole (soil drench, soil injection), imidacloprid (soil drench), and neem oil (soil drench).

Make insecticide applications after bloom to protect pollinators. Applications at times of the day and temperatures when pollinators are less likely to be active can also reduce the risk of impacting their populations.

Note: Beginning July 1, 2022, neonicotinoid insecticides are classified as state restricted use for use on tree and shrub insect pests in Massachusetts. For more information, visit the MA Department of Agricultural Resources Pesticide Program.

Read and follow all label instructions for safety and proper use. If this guide contradicts language on the label, follow the most up-to-date instructions on the product label. Always confirm that the site you wish to treat and the pest you wish to manage are on the label before using any pesticide. Read the full disclaimer. Active ingredients labeled "L" indicate some products containing the active ingredient are labeled for landscape uses on trees or shrubs. Active ingredients labeled "N" indicate some products containing the active ingredient are labeled for use in nurseries. Always confirm allowable uses on product labels. This active ingredient list is based on what was registered for use in Massachusetts at the time of publication. This information changes rapidly and may not be up to date. If you are viewing this information from another state, check with your local Extension Service and State Pesticide Program for local uses and regulations. Active ingredient lists were last updated: January 2024. To check current product registrations in Massachusetts, please visit: https://www.mass.gov/pesticide-product-registration .