Develop classical biological control methods for box tree moth, an invasive insect that feeds on boxwood

The Department of Agriculture Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service awarded a $125,152 Cooperative Agreement to the University of Massachusetts on September 1, 2026, to develop classical biological control methods for box tree moth, an invasive insect pest that feeds on boxwood.

The recipient will maintain insect colonies, conduct host specificity experiments on parasitoids of interest, and assist with related studies to support the petition process for releasing a candidate biological control agent. Deliverables include maintenance of high-quality insect colonies suitable for research use, data documenting host specificity of parasitoids under evaluation, and submission of a petition to release a biological control agent for box tree moth. The work runs through August 31, 2027, and is performed in the United States.

The program aims to strengthen plant protection and quarantine capabilities to mitigate box tree moth damage. Intended beneficiaries include commercial boxwood producers, private property owners with boxwood plantings, and public and private institutions such as universities, parks, and heritage sites where boxwood is cultivated.

This will improve plant protection and quarantine's ability to mitigate this pest. Activities to be performed: the recipient will maintain insect colonies, run host specificity experiments, and assist with other studies on the parasitoids of interest as needed. Deliverables and expected outcomes: expected deliverables include the maintenance of high-quality insect colonies for research use, data on host specificity of parasitoids of interest, and submission of a petition to release a candidate biological control agent of box tree moth. Intended beneficiary(IES): commercial boxwood producers, civilians who have boxwood plants, and private and public institutions where boxwood is grown (universities, parks, heritage sites, etc.) will benefit from this work.