Wing shape variability and flight performance of box tree moth Cydalima perspectalis

Box tree moth (Cydalima perspectalis, Walker) is an invasive species present in Croatia since 2012 where causes great damage to plants of the genus Buxus. The pest spreads rapidly, has high reproductive potential and good adaptability. Its known natural dispersal velocity is up to10 km per year. Understanding flight characteristics of insect pests is essential for designing effective strategies and programs for their management. The aim of this study was to asses wing shape variability, flight propensity and of C. perspectalis and to evaluate its invasive character using geometric morphometric methods and flight mill technology. An inter-sites analysis was performed, and the dataset was divided by geographic area, with intraspecific variation detected independently. Results show wing shape influenced by agroecological factors, with forewings found to be more plastic than hindwings. In terms of sexual differentiation, multivariate regression of wing shape revealed minimal differences between male and female forewings, yet female wing shapes were more variable and covered a large percentage of the shape space. C. perspectalis flew a maximum distance of 15.6 km (virgin females) and spent a maximum time in flight of 241 minutes (4 hours). The average speed of C. perspectalis ranged from 1.1 m/s to 1.6 m/s. Knowledge of C. perspectalis wing characteristics and flight performances are of great importance in assessing dispersal and provide important insights into migratory activities.