European Pepper Moth Duponchelia fovealis

Photo of European Pepper Moth (Duponchelia fovealis)

(c) Paul Kirkland and Kay Taylor, some rights reserved (CC BY)

OrderButterflies and Moths (Lepidoptera)
FamilyCrambid Snout Moths (Crambidae)
GenusDuponchelia (Duponchelia)

This moth represents one of nature's most dramatic range expansions. Originally found only around the Mediterranean Sea and Canary Islands, it has aggressively expanded its territory to colonize parts of Africa, Europe, the Middle East, and North America—quite a feat for an insect first described in 1847. Its ability to adapt to new climates and food sources makes it a fascinating case study in how species respond to changing conditions and increased global trade. This range expansion is still ongoing.

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