Lymantria dispar dispar, commonly known as the gypsy moth, is a moth of European origin. It has a distinctive brown, hairy body with males possessing feathery antennae. Notable for its destructive feeding habits, the larvae can defoliate entire forests, impacting biodiversity. It primarily inhabits temperate woodlands.

Lymantria dispar dispar, commonly known as the gypsy moth, is native to Europe and parts of Asia. Its original range includes countries such as Portugal, Spain, France, Italy, and other Mediterranean regions, as well as parts of temperate Asia.

The gypsy moth typically inhabits deciduous and mixed forests. It thrives in temperate climates with distinct seasonal changes, including cold winters and warm summers. The moth prefers environments where host trees like oak, birch, and willow are abundant.

Lymantria dispar dispar is a defoliator, meaning it feeds on the leaves of trees, particularly favoring oak species but also consuming a wide range of other trees and shrubs. Its ecological role involves influencing forest composition and dynamics through its feeding habits, which can lead to significant defoliation during outbreak years.