Invasive species now called spongy moth

The bothersome gypsy moth will now be known as the spongy moth. The Entomological Society of America made the change because the word “gypsy” is considered a derogatory slur against the Romani people. The word was dropped from its list of common names last July and the new name was just announced.

New Ontario watercraft regulations fight invasive species

New legislation in Ontario can result in a fine if boats are not cleaned properly when they are moved from one body of water and into another. Boaters are now required to drain water from their boat and equipment and remove aquatic plants, animals and algae from boats, equipment, vehicles and trailers, according to the new rules. It is now illegal to place a boat in any body of water if there are aquatic weeds, animals or algae still on it.

Hope spreads for infected trees

Researchers in Ohio are getting ready to expand one of seven treatments for a widespread disease that kills beech trees. The invasive beech leaf disease causes dark striping on leaves and makes them thick, leathery and disfigured before killing the tree.