Hawaiian Insects

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Scotorythra koa defoliation Humuula 9272

Scotorythra koa defoliation Humuula 9272.jpg Scotorythra paludicola Humuula 9256ThumbnailsScotorythra paludicola larva Humuula 9368Scotorythra paludicola Humuula 9256ThumbnailsScotorythra paludicola larva Humuula 9368Scotorythra paludicola Humuula 9256ThumbnailsScotorythra paludicola larva Humuula 9368Scotorythra paludicola Humuula 9256ThumbnailsScotorythra paludicola larva Humuula 9368Scotorythra paludicola Humuula 9256ThumbnailsScotorythra paludicola larva Humuula 9368

Defoliation of koa by the native moth Scotorythra paludicola at about 4000 feet elevation, Humuula Trail. The damage is worst at this elevation but stops rather abruptly just above here, suggesting the moths are moving mauka. Adults could also be seen flying near the ground mauka of the defoliated area, but not in damaged areas below about 3800 feet.