Introduction

Cactoblastis cactorum, the cactus moth, is native to Argentina, Paraguay, Uruguay, and southern Brazil. The moth feeds mainly on Opuntias.

The Details

C. cactorum is controlled in its native habitat by natural predators. However, it has been introduced into North America where it has damaged native Opuntias. It can be so destructive that it was released into Australia to control a great infestation of Opuntias that were ruining farmland.

In the United States it has spread east-to-west to about Texas.

Additional Reading: Cactoblastis Moth