Cactoblastis cactorum, the cactus moth, South American cactus moth or nopal moth, is native to Argentina, Paraguay, Uruguay and southern Brazil. It is one of five species in the genus …

Jul 30, 2025 · The South American cactus moth is a pest of Opuntia species (also known as prickly pear cactus), and an occasional pest of Nopalea, Cylindropuntia, and Consolea cactus …

Oct 28, 2020 · The cactus moth has a wingspan of only about an inch, but this invasive insect has the potential to cause largescale agricultural and ecological devastation in Texas, according to …

May 27, 2024 · To help control the growth of prickly pear cacti, some areas have introduced this South American native moth to their ecosystem. Learn more about how to identify cactus …

Jan 16, 2014 · Distribution and Dispersal of Cactoblastis cactorum (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae), an Exotic Opuntia-feeding Moth in Florida. Department of Biological Sciences, University of South …

Cactus Moth (Cactoblastis cactorum) Once hailed as a hero in Australia when it was introduced to control unwanted populations of exotic prickly pear cacti, the cactus moth has recently …

As the moth moves through the Southeastern United States, it endangers many cactus species and threatens many ecosystems. In Florida, the greatest concern is for the critically …

Learn about the cactus moth – its physical features, feeding habits, reproduction, role in ecosystems, threats, and cultural references. Discover why this insect is both beneficial and …

Oct 22, 2025 · Adult Description: Adult cactus moths are non-descript, gray-brown moths with faint dark spots and wavy transverse lines marking the wings. The rear margins of the …

Cactus moth (Cactoblastis cactorum) is an insect pest of Cactus. It is a native of South America and was first detected in Hawaii in 1950. The South American cactus moth (Cactoblastis …