Cactus Moth
Common NameCactus Moth
Scientific NameCactoblastis cactorum
FamilyPyralidae
SubfamilyPhycitinae
Wingspan (mm)28
Primary Colorsgrey, white, black, brown
HabitatArid and semi-arid regions, grasslands, coastal areas, and any environments where Opuntia cacti are present.
Geographic RangeNative to South America (Argentina, Uruguay, Paraguay, Brazil). Introduced and established in Australia, South Africa, Caribbean islands, Mexico, and the southeastern United States.
Host PlantsOpuntia spp. (prickly pear cacti)
Flight PeriodMultiple generations per year; active year-round in tropical climates, or spring to fall in temperate regions.
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid in characteristic 'egg sticks' resembling cactus spines. Larvae are reddish-orange with black bands and bore into cactus pads, feeding internally. Pupation occurs in cocoons typically found in soil or leaf litter.
Identification TipsLook for the distinctive dark basal band and wavy lines on the forewings. The unique 'egg stick' formation on cactus pads and the reddish-orange, black-banded larvae boring into Opuntia cacti are key identifiers.
Description
A small to medium-sized moth with mottled greyish-brown forewings featuring distinct dark transverse lines and a prominent blackish band near the base. The hindwings are generally whitish.
