Palm borer - Paysandisia archon
Effective: April 22, 2011
Taxonomic Position: Lepidoptera : Castniidae
Pest Type: Insects
Pest Code (NAPIS): ITAFABA
This pest is a member of the following surveys: Palm
These Approved Methods are appropriate for: 2025, 2024, 2023, 2022, 2021, 2020, 2019, 2018, 2017, 2016, 2015, 2014, 2013, 2012
Pest Information
CAPS Pest Datasheet: https://download.ceris.purdue.edu/file/4254
Pest Tracker: https://pesttracker.org/pest/ITAFABA
Hosts Identified in the CAPS Host Matrix:
New World palm/Palmetto; Palm (coconut palm, oil palm, etc.)
Human and Animal Pathogens Transmitted:
Not known to transmit any human or animal pathogens.
Pest Pathogens and Organisms Vectored:
Not known to vector any pathogens or other associated organisms but damage may lead to invasion by secondary pests.
Survey
Approved Method(s)
| Method | Detail | NAPIS Survey Method |
|---|---|---|
| Visual | See the CPHST pest datasheet for detailed survey instructions. | 3031 - General Visual Observation |
Trap Spacing:
When trapping for more than one species of moth, separate traps for different moth species by at least 20 meters (65 feet).
Survey Recommendations
The following are recommendations for executing the survey using the approved methods for pest surveillance. The recommendations are developed through literature review and consultation with subject matter experts.
Key Diagnostic or Identification
Approved Method(s)
ID/Diagnostic:
Morphological. The underside of the forewing is bright red; the hindwing is bright orange with a series of white spots on a dark background. Use Passoa (2009) as a screening key.
Mistaken Identities:
Signs of P. archon damage could be confused with native Lepidoptera that have been occasionally observed feeding on palm trees.
References
If you are unable to find a reference, contact STCAPS@usda.gov. See the CAPS Pest Datasheet for all references.