About Cryptoblabes gnidiella Millière, 1867
Cryptoblabes gnidiella, commonly known as the honeydew moth or Christmasberry moth, is a moth species that belongs to the family Pyralide. Its native range centers around the Mediterranean Sea. It also occurs in Africa, specifically in South Africa, Réunion, Madagascar, and Ghana, as well as in the Oriental and Australasian region, including Australia, Hawaii, and New Guinea. It is an introduced species in South America and Middle America. This moth has a wingspan of 11 to 20 mm. Caterpillars of this species feed on oranges and other citrus fruits, apples, and maize. Adult moths feed on honeydew, and their known association with Christmasberry, also called Brazilian pepper and with the scientific name Schinus terebinthifolius, appears to be mainly related to this feeding habit. The species has been recorded feeding on several dozen different host plants, including many cultivated plants, and particularly a variety of fruits such as grapes, lemons, and pomegranates. Cryptoblabes gnidiella is considered a serious pest.
