Amazon-native
Guides
Niphograpta albiguttalis
Water Hyacinth Moth
Niphograpta albiguttalis is the sole species in its genus, a crambid moth native to the Amazon basin. It has been intentionally introduced to multiple continents as a biological control agent for water hyacinth (Eichhornia crassipes). The moth's larvae tunnel into water hyacinth leaves and petioles, causing damage that can reduce plant vigor and spread. It is established in the southeastern United States, parts of Africa, and eastern Australia.