First report of the pine defoliator Glena bisulca (Lepidoptera: Geometridae) and its parasitoid, the black fly Trichophora melas (Diptera: Tachinidae), in Peru

In Peru, pine (Pinus patula) plantations are important for reforestation and sustainable timber production. However, a recent infestation of Lepidoptera larvae was detected affecting large areas of pine plantations in the department of Amazonas. The objective of this research was to characterize this Lepidoptera pest and the natural enemies found in the affected area. Eggs, larvae, pupae and adults were collected and analyzed by morphological and molecular techniques. The results show that Glena bisulca (Geometridae) is the species that infests pine plantations in Amazonas, with larvae that completely defoliate the trees. Additionally, we were able to identify Trichophora melas (Tachinidae) as a parasitoid associated with the collected pupae of G. bisulca. This is the first study reporting G. bisulca attacking pine plantations in Peru, and the first to generate molecular identification sequences for T. melas. The results are essential for the recognition of G. bisulca and its natural enemy, allowing for the development of Integrated Pest Management strategies in Peru’s pine plantations.