Issue No. 333
D.H. Habeck and F.D. Bennett
August, 1990
Introduction
The discovery of Cactoblastis cactorum Berg in the Florida Keys in October, 1989 raises to at least five the number of phycitine moth species associated with prickly pear cacti (Opuntia spp.) in Florida. C. cactorum was first identified by Mr. Terhune Dickel, Homestead, FL. The presence of Ozamia lucidalis (Walker) in the U.S. is also a new record. It was previously known only from Cuba, Jamaica, and the Dominican Republic (Heinrich 1956). There is further evidence that another unreported species may be attacking Opuntia spp. in the Florida Keys. Additional collections and rearings are needed to confirm this.