APHIS Seeks Input on the Proposed Release of Apanteles opuntiarum for Biological Control of the Cactus Moth (Cactoblastis cactorum)

The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) is reviewing a request to release Apanteles opuntiarum, a parasitoid wasp, to control the invasive cactus moth, Cactoblastis cactorum. The cactus moth poses a serious threat to native Opuntia cactus species in the United States.  

APHIS has posted a summary of the request on the Stakeholder Consultation for Proposed Environmental Release of Novel Biological Control Agents web page for a 30-day public review period, ending on October 10, 2026. We are requesting input on the potential release of Apanteles opuntiarum to control Cactoblastis cactorum. Please submit scientific and technical information that can support APHIS’ decision making to ppqbiocontrol@usda.gov and include Apanteles opuntiarum in the subject line. Any information received will be considered and may result in changes to the proposed release.