New Record of the Genus <i>Paranthrenella</i> Strand (Lepidoptera: Sesiidae) from India and its Infestation on Avocado

A member of the genus Paranthrenella Strand (Lepidoptera: Sesiidae) is reported for the first time from India. This is also the first report of Paranthrenella sp. on avocado (Persea americana Miller). Time of occurrence, nature and intensity of damage as well as biology details are discussed. Symptoms of infestation were confirmed from several places in Idukki district, with an extent of 70% at Attappallam area, Kumily Panchayath, Idukki district, Kerala (9° 37’12’’ N, 77° 9’6’’ E); 76.24% of the branches showed symptoms of drying.