First report of range expansion of the cactus webworm, Loxomorpha flavidissimalis (Grote) (Pyraloidea: Crambidae) to central Mexico and central Texas, U.S.A.
Abstract
Prickly pear cactus pads of Opuntia ficus-indica (L.) (Cactaceae) are cultivated in Mexico for fresh consumption. We report that Loxomorpha flavidissimalis (Grote) (Lepidoptera: Crambidae), the cactus webworm, was observed recently in farms in Morelos and has expanded its distribution south from its previously known distribution of northern to central Mexico. Female and male genitalia are fully illustrated to facilitate identification. The cactus webworm represents an additional potential pest to cultivated prickly pear cactus in central Mexico.
Sumario
El nopal verdura Opuntia ficus-indica (L.) (Cactaceae) es cultivado en México para su consumo en fresco. Aquí, reportamos a Loxomorpha flavidissimalis (Grote) (Lepidoptera: Crambidae), el gusano telarañero, afectando a plantaciones en Morelos, ampliando su distribución al sur, desde sus registros previos al norte de México hasta la zona central del país. La genitalia de la hembra y macho es ilustrada para facilitar su identificación. El gusano telarañero representa una plaga potencial adicional a los nopales cultivados en el centro de México.
Key Words: prickly pear pads; pest; cactus webworm; Lepidoptera; Morelos
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