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Scientists seek aid to fight cactus moth

A full-blown program to control the cactus moth would cost millions of dollars, but scientists say they are trying to scrape up just $100,000 for field testing an experimental technique that may slow the invasive pest’s advance.

The moth, a South American native, could wreak economic and environmental havoc if it gets to the southwestern United States and Mexico, where it appears headed. In 14 years the insect has marched across Florida from the Keys to the western tip of the Panhandle, and it is picking up speed.

U.S. Department of Agriculture scientists at a meeting of cactus moth experts this week in Miami reported that releasing sterile males reduced larvae by 80 percent in caged testing. The same approach has been used to control some other pests such as the Mediterranean fruit fly, a major threat to the citrus industry.

The moth lays eggs on the prickly pear cactus. When the larvae hatch they devour the plants. The prickly pear provides food for people and wildlife in Mexico and the Southwest, where it also is an important nursery plant. —AP

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