Fortuitous introduction of Lantanophaga pusillidactylus (Walker) into Nepal

The neotropical plant, Lantana camara L., introduced as an ornamental plant to several countries, has become an invasive weed. It was first reported from Nepal in 1848. About 50 countries have introduced natural enemies for suppression of the weed. India, Nepal’s neighboring country, initiated biological control of this weed in 1916 and reported the occurrence of Lantanophaga pusillidactylus Walker. In a recent survey, the Feed the future Nepal Integrated Pest Management project found larvae of this insect feeding on flower heads of L. camara in Nepal. This communication reports the first discovery of L. pusillidactylus in Nepal on March 13, 2023.