Which pest is targeted by spinosad in products such as Conserve and Entrust?

• A. Gypsy moth
• B. Emerald ash borer
• C. Colorado potato beetle
• D. Spider mite

Answer: (A)

Spinosad products like Conserve and Entrust are used mainly to control caterpillar pests, especially gypsy moth larvae. Spinosad works by overstimulating the insect’s nervous system after ingestion or contact, causing rapid paralysis and death and stopping feeding. Gypsy moths are a major defoliator of hardwood trees, so using these formulations helps reduce defoliation by killing the young caterpillars early. The other insects listed aren’t the typical targets for these specific spinosad products—emerald ash borer is a wood-boring beetle with different control options, while Colorado potato beetle and spider mites are managed with other labeled products or strategies.