Cactus Moth (Cactoblastis cactorum)
The cactus moth is most well known as a pest to all forms of the prickly pear cacti. It is a member of the snout moth family and originated from South America. Argentinian entomologist Carlos Berg first described this species in 1885.
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Scientific Classification
- Family: Pyralidae
- Genus: Cactoblastis
- Scientific Name: Cactoblastis cactorum
Description and Identification
Caterpillar
The larvae begin as pink-cream, eventually turning bright orange-red marked with black spots or bands. The full-grown larva can reach up to 25-30 mm in length.
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Pupa
Once mature, the caterpillars go underground to pupate.
Adult Moth
Sexual Dimorphism: Present but not prominent.
Color and Appearance:
Forewing: When opened, they are grayish brown, marked with wavy lines and dark spots. When closed, the color and pattern remain unchanged, though fewer lines and spots are visible.
Hindwing: When opened, the semi-permanent hindwings appear whitish. When closed, the wings are barely visible.
Average Wingspan: 27–40 mm (females); 23–32 mm (males)
Flight Pattern: Erratic
Season: Dry periods starting from June
Egg
Females lay their eggs in the form of an “egg stick” that looks similar to a cactus’ spine and contains 30-50 eggs.
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Quick Facts
| Distribution | Native: South America, including Argentina, southern Brazil, Paraguay, and Uruguay Invasive: Australia, India, Hawaii, South Africa, and some Caribbean islands |
| Habitat | Arid regions |
| Lifespan of Adults | Females: 9 days Males: 11 days |
| Predators | Ants, parasitic wasps, and New World monkeys |
| Host Plants | Prickly pear cacti |
| Adult Diet | Does not feed |
Did You Know
- Though a pest in most parts of the world it is found in, this moth is considered an important biological control agent in Australia, keeping the prickly pear population down.
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Scientific Classification
- Family: Pyralidae
- Genus: Cactoblastis
- Scientific Name: Cactoblastis cactorum
