Elusively overwintering: a review of diamondback moth (Lepidoptera: Plutellidae) cold tolerance and overwintering strategy

There is no consensus on the overwintering strategy used by the diamondback moth, Plutella xylostella (Lepidoptera: Plutellidae). As a result, the topic of diamondback moth overwintering in temperate climates remains controversial. However, there has been general agreement that the diamondback moth does not overwinter in diapause. This review compiles data on low temperature survival to determine cold tolerance mechanisms and the cold tolerance strategy of the diamondback moth. According to cold tolerance data and observations from key overwintering studies in eastern North America, the diamondback moth likely overwinters in a quiescent state in no specific overwintering stage and is chill susceptible. Observations from key overwintering studies suggest a northern overwintering limit for diamondback moth of similar to 43 degrees N in eastern North America. Climate change may alter winter conditions in temperate climates, making temperate regions susceptible to potential diamondback moth overwintering and recurring outbreaks.