Almond
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Amyelois transitella
Navel Orangeworm, Navel Orangeworm Moth
The navel orangeworm moth (Amyelois transitella) is a pyralid moth native to the tropical western Hemisphere and southwestern United States. First described from Arizona in 1899, its abundance in California increased dramatically during the first half of the 20th century. It is now the most serious insect pest of almonds and pistachios in California, with larvae feeding directly on nuts and adults capable of introducing fungi that produce aflatoxins. The species has been extensively studied for its chemical ecology, particularly its sex pheromone system, which has enabled practical mating disruption programs in agricultural fields.