Pyrausta inornatalis, new species to France / Europe

[wollastoni]

Several specimens of the American moth Pyrausta inornatalis have been seen in SW France in 2024. Observations in the towns of Toulouse, Agen and Vianne prove that we're not dealing with a few individuals escaped from a plant shop, but a major colonization. It remains to be seen, however, whether the species overwinters in Europe (but in all likelihood it will) and whether it succeeds in establishing itself in Europe.

pyrausta-inortalis-france.jpg (206.43 KiB) Viewed 3685 times

Pyrausta inortalis, Vianne, SW France, 3 September 2024 (picture by Olivier Vannucci)

As the species eats Salvia and basil, the risk of nuisance is low but possible for professional growers of this species.

We'll have to keep an eye on the species' expansion this autumn, and it will be interesting to see if we find it again next year.
The species has probably been introduced through the importation of American plants. Its beauty and unique look make it easily detectable by amateurs.

Maybe soon in the rest of Europe.

[vabrou]

A common species here in Louisiana, but never a pest here, though the array of food-plants in Europe will probably determine if it does become a pest.

[bobw]

It's also been recorded as an invasive pest species in Japan since 2019.

[wollastoni]

Interesting Bob, I did not know that. If it survived in Japan, should work fine for them in Europe too.
Time will tell.

[bobw]

Paysandisia archon didn't seem to have too much trouble spreading all the way round the Mediterranean.

[wollastoni]

Indeed. Cydalima perspectalis "invasion" has been impressive too, recently.

[bobw]

...and although originally from the Balkans, Cameraria ohridella has spread north and west incredibly quickly as well.