The fast invasion of Europe by the box tree moth: an additional example coupling multiple introduction events, bridgehead effects and admixture events

Abstract Identifying the invasion routes of non-native species is crucial to understanding invasions and customizing management strategies. The box tree moth, Cydalima perspectalis , native Asia was recently accidentally introduced into Europe as a result ornamental plant trade. Over last 15 years, it has spread across continent reached Caucasus Iran. It threatening Buxus trees in both urban areas forests. To investigate species’ routes, invasive moth populations were sampled, moth’s genetic diversity structure compared using microsatellite markers. Our approximate Bayesian computation analyses strongly suggest that pathways complex. Primary introductions originating from eastern China probably occurred independently twice Germany once Netherlands. There also possibly bridgehead effects, where at least three may have served sources for other within Europe, with indication admixture between two primary populations. likely those countries play major role trade notably Germany, Netherlands, Italy. All these processes facilitated its fast expansion illustrate played by not only introduction but leading an complex pattern.