Lymantria dispar, commonly known as the gypsy moth, is a moth species notable for its destructive larval stage. Native to Europe and Asia, it thrives in deciduous forests, where its caterpillars feed voraciously on the leaves of hardwood trees, sometimes leading to severe defoliation. The adults have a distinct sexual dimorphism; males are brown with feathered antennae, while females are larger, white, and flightless. This species is a significant pest due to its capacity to damage forests and urban greenery.

Lymantria dispar, commonly known as the gypsy moth, is native to Europe, Asia, and North Africa. The species is originally from temperate regions, with its natural range extending across a wide geographical distribution that includes countries such as France, Italy, Russia, and parts of China and Korea.

The gypsy moth typically inhabits deciduous and mixed forests, where it finds a suitable environment for feeding and reproduction. These areas are characterized by temperate climates with distinct seasonal changes, including cold winters and warm summers. The moth prefers regions with a variety of host tree species, such as oaks, birches, and willows.

Lymantria dispar plays a significant role in its ecosystem as a defoliator of trees. It is primarily a folivore in its larval stage, consuming the leaves of a variety of tree species. This feeding behavior can lead to significant defoliation, affecting forest health and dynamics. The moth's ability to adapt to different host trees and environmental conditions allows it to exploit various ecological niches within its native range. Variations in habitat preferences are observed in subspecies, such as those found in Asia, which may have adapted to specific local climates and available vegetation.