Prickly Pear Moth - Mature and young larvae on cladode of prickly pear. Larvae bore into and feed on cactus pads, killing them. Introduced from South America to control prickly pear (Opuntia) infestations

Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Ardea

Prickly Pear Moth - Mature and young larvae on cladode of prickly pear. Larvae bore into and feed on cactus pads, killing them. Introduced from South America to control prickly pear (Opuntia) infestations

ASW-4383
Prickly Pear Moth - Mature and young larvae on cladode of prickly pear
Grahamstown, Eastern Cape, South Africa.
Larvae bore into and feed on cactus pads, killing them. Introduced from South America to control prickly pear (Opuntia) infestations. Occurs in Valley Bushveld and other arid areas where prickly pears occur.
Alan J. S. Weaving
Please note that prints are for personal display purposes only and may not be reproduced in any way.

Ardea are an independent specialist photographic library supplying high quality images of wildlife, pets and the environment

Media ID 1310659

© Ardea - All Rights Reserved

Cacti Cactus Caterpillar Caterpillars Colourful Introduced Species Larvae Lepidoptera Moth Moths South Africa Biological Control Pyralidae Three

EDITORS COMMENTS
. In this print by Alan Weaving, we are introduced to the ultimate prickly pear assassins - ASW-4383, also known as the Prickly Pear Moth. These feisty larvae take no prisoners as they bore into and feast on cactus pads, effectively putting an end to prickly pear infestations. Originally hailing from South America, these adorable yet deadly creatures were introduced to Grahamstown in the Eastern Cape of South Africa for one mission only - to control those pesky prickly pears! And boy, do they deliver! The image showcases both mature and young larvae happily munching away on a cladode of prickly pear. With their vibrant colors and determined expressions, it's hard not to root for these tiny warriors in their quest against invasive cacti. Found in arid areas where prickly pears thrive, these caterpillars have become nature's secret weapon against plant invaders. Their presence brings balance back to Valley Bushveld and other regions plagued by Opuntia overgrowth. So let us celebrate this incredible example of biological control at its finest! Raise your glasses (but watch out for spines) to ASW-4383 - the unsung heroes who save our landscapes one bite at a time.

MADE IN THE USA
Safe Shipping with 30 Day Money Back Guarantee

FREE PERSONALISATION*
We are proud to offer a range of customisation features including Personalised Captions, Color Filters and Picture Zoom Tools

SECURE PAYMENTS
We happily accept a wide range of payment options so you can pay for the things you need in the way that is most convenient for you

* Options may vary by product and licensing agreement. Zoomed Pictures can be adjusted in the Cart.