AN OUTBREAK OF Yponomeuta padella (LINNAEUS, 1758) ON Prunus cornuta (HIMALAYAN BIRD CHERRY) IN KULLU DISTRICT, HIMACHAL PRADESH, INDIA

Invasive insect pests are one of the greatest and fastest-growing threats to natural resources like agricultural biodiversity, animal sector and social progresses are profusely hampered through insect infestation. Through this present study, it was first recorded that Yponomeuta padella attack Prunus cornuta (Himalayan Bird Cherry) leaves in high altitudinal transition zone forests of North Western Himalaya in India. The first damage was observed duringthe month of July, 2022 and randomly collected egg masses form the infested leaves of Prunus cornuta. This species identified through its morphological and genital characteristics. A complete biology of ermine moth, morphology and genital characteristics were studied to update the taxonomic details of the species. More than 90% infestation in leaves was recorded in some trees in the study area. As an alternative, an integrated pest management system needs to be developed for better insect's sustainable management.