Hyblaea puera (Cramer, 1777) [Lepidoptera : Hyblaeidae] Infestation on Avicennia alba Blume in Sunderban Biosphere Reserve, West Bengal, India

A survey on lepidopteran pests of mangrove was conducted in different Islands of Sunderban Biosphere Reserve within the district of South 24 Parganas, West Bengal, India, over a period of 4 years (2012–2016). During the survey, a severe lepidopteran infestation was observed on the Avicennia alba Blume, which is one of the major mangrove species of Sunderbans. The life history of the lepidopteran species was studied in field as well as in laboratory conditions. The adults were identified as Hyblaea puera (Cramer, 1777) (Lepidoptera : Hyblaeidae) which is being reported for the first time from the Indian part of Sunderbans. The study revealed that the Hyblaea puera (Cramer, 1777) completed its life cycle in 21–25 days in both laboratory and field conditions. The biology and ecology of the said species and the nature of damage caused to the mangroves by these moths are discussed.