First report of an invasive pest, Pheosia albivertex (Hampson 1983) (Lepidoptera: Notodontidae) on Populus alba (Salicaceae), from Ladakh, India

Populus spp. belongs to the deciduous flowering plants in the family Salicaceae, primarily located in the Northern Hemisphere, including Trans-Himalayan, cold arid desert Ladakh. In Ladakh, it is predominantly cultivated in irrigated land patches along the riverbanks. This plant holds significant economic value as its wood is extensively used in furniture-making and house constructions. Recently, a highly successful pest, identified as Pheosia albivertex (Hampson 1983), was observed infesting the Populus plantations, marking a new record of insect infestation. The pest causes complete defoliation, particularly during midsummer, which is the prime foliage period. The initial sighting of this insect occurred in Dyanguchay village, Suru-valley, Kargil district of the union territory of Ladakh. However, during a thorough three-year-and-five-month investigation from April 2019 to August 2022, it was found spreading to neighbouring areas. Consequently, without timely control measures, it poses a significant threat to the popular plantation in Ladakh and other adjoining areas.