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Cactus Moth (Cactoblastis cactorum)

Last Updated: February 11, 2008 Related resource areas: Agrosecurity and Floods


The cactus moth has a rather checkered past. It has been used successfully to eradicate extensive infestations of prickly pear (Opuntia spp) cactus in Australia, the Caribbean and parts of Hawaii. It spread to the Florida Keys in 1989 and now has been found in Florida, South Carolina and Alabama. Unfortunately, the cactus moth also feeds on many desirable native cacti in western Texas and Mexico. The loss of biodiversity would adversely affect wildlife habitat and food sources.


Current management efforts focus on early detection and possible use of the sterile insect technique to establish a barrier to further spread.


Additional information on cactus moth can be found at: USDA APHIS Plant Protection and Quarantine


More information

agrosecurity, agrosecurity: plants

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