Spinosad, the active ingredient in Conserve and Entrust insecticides is effective for controlling

• A. Gypsy moth
• B. Japanese beetle
• C. Aphids
• D. Spider mites

Answer: (A)

Spinosad acts by overstimulating the insect nervous system after contact or ingestion, which leads to rapid paralysis and death. Because this makes chewing larvae highly vulnerable, it’s especially effective against caterpillars that are feeding on leaves. Gypsy moth caterpillars fit this pattern perfectly—they feed openly on tree foliage, so spraying labeled spinosad products can quickly reduce their feeding and damage.

While some other pests may occasionally be affected, the most reliable and common use of spinosad among the choices is against gypsy moth caterpillars. Japanese beetle adults, aphids, and spider mites respond less consistently to this mode of action, with mites in particular often requiring different miticides. So the target situation that aligns best with how spinosad is typically used is gypsy moth caterpillars.