Infestation of Mangroves by the Invasive Moth Hyblaea puera (Cramer, 1777)(Lepidoptera: Hyblaeidae)

Abstract

Abstract We report the first known infestation of mangroves by the invasive moth Hyblaea puera in Paraná, Southern Brazil. The infestation caused massive defoliation of Avicennia schaueriana trees, affecting approximately 20,000 hectares of mangroves. We discuss the implications for conservation and management, focusing on protected areas, the ecology of mangroves, and local livelihoods.

Keywords

• pest quarantine
• ecosystem services
• insect-plant interactions
• leaf consumption
• litterfall.