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Cactus Moth Caterpillars [Cactoblastis cactorum] |
| These Cactus Moth caterpillars were photographed inside a cactus pad (Opuntia sp.) in the back dunes of the beach at Mayport Naval Station, Duval County, Florida on 12/12/2007. None of the caterpillars were readily apparent although it was obvious that the cactus plant was severely stressed. The cactus pad was sliced open with a filet knife to reveal the caterpillars actively feeding inside. This invasive moth species was first noted in south Florida in 1989 and it has continued to spread northward along the Atlantic and Gulf coasts since that time. |
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![Cactus Moth Caterpillars [Cactoblastis cactorum]](pc203.jpg)
