D3477: Status of the European pepper moths in East Texas: Their presence, distribution, and phenology

The European pepper moth (EPM) (Duponchelia fovealis) is an invasive species in the US with a wide host range, native to the Mediterranean region of Europe. First identified in California in 2004, EPM is now established in several states, including Texas. The EPM life cycle includes egg, larva, pupa, and adult stages, with larvae feeding on roots, stems, leaves, flowers, and buds. Infested plants exhibit webs, frass, injured leaves, and girdled stems, posing economic risks to Texas' growing green industry. In our field study, we monitored EPM activity to understand its distribution and phenology in East Texas. The study was conducted in Cherokee, Smith, and Van Zandt counties. EPM activity was noted in three locations in Cherokee County and one in Van Zandt County. Only male moths were attracted to pheromone traps, with average captures ranging from 0.00 to 5.80 per trap. Higher EPM activity was observed in May, with a decline in August and the summer months. This study provides valuable insights for growers, aiding in understanding the biology and managing the impact of this invasive pest.