BRIN Announces Discovery of 3 New Moth Species, Clove and Guava Farmers Must Be Cautious

KABAR ALAM - The National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) recently announced the discovery of three new moth species.

The three moth species announced by BRIN are Cryptophasa warouwi, Glyphodes nurfitriae, and Glyphodes ahsanae.

In a written statement quoted by KABARALAM.com from its official website, BRIN revealed that one of the moths, Cryptophasa warouwi, needs to be a cause for concern for clove farmers as it has the potential to damage stems and branches.

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It is mentioned that the discovery of the new moths was carried out by several researchers from the Center for Biosystematics and Evolutionary Research (PRBE) of the Biological and Environmental Research Organization of BRIN, along with a team from the Faculty of Agriculture, Sam Ratulangi University in Manado.

BRIN claims that this discovery will be very beneficial in enhancing the understanding of the diversity of Cryptophasa in the Wallacea region and explaining its conservation status.

It is explained that the first type of moth, Cryptophasa warouwi, is considered a new endemic pest from Sangihe Island, North Sulawesi, and its potential attacks need to be anticipated by farmers.

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Meanwhile, the other two new moth species, Glyphodes nurfitriae and Glyphodes ahsanae, were identified as originating from Papua.

Hari Sutrisno, a researcher from the Center for Biosystematics and Evolutionary Research (PRBE) of BRIN involved in the discovery, revealed that Cryptophasa larvae are known as pests that burrow into branches and stems. These nocturnal creatures cut leaves for food, create tunnels, and seal them with silk and debris.

"In 2023, the activities of these creatures caused varying degrees of damage to clove plants in five districts of Sangihe Island, North Sulawesi. The infestation resulted in damage to branches and stems, leading to a decrease in leaf density on clove plants," explained Hari.

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Disturbing Clove Plants

Another researcher from PRBE BRIN, Pramesa Narakusumo, added that since 2016, larvae of this species have been observed disturbing clove plants on Sangihe Island, and in 2023, the distribution of this species continued to expand.