The Impact of the Invasive Teak Defoliator Hyblaea puera on Coastal Mangrove Ecosystems in Kannur District, Kerala, India

Mangroves play a vital role in coastal protection, biodiversity, and supporting local livelihoods. Kerala, known for its rich mangrove habitats, is facing a significant threat, as this study reports the first recorded infestation of these critical ecosystems by the invasive moth Hyblaea puera in Dharmadam and other regions of Kannur District, Kerala, India. The aggressive feeding behaviour of the larvae has led to severe defoliation in Avicennia officinalis (Acanthaceae), the dominant mangrove species, across vast areas, leaving the landscape with a scorched, ashy appearance. This ecological crisis poses serious risks to local biodiversity, livelihoods, and the crucial role of mangroves in Kerala's coastal ecosystems. H. puera, commonly known as the teak defoliator, has caused similar outbreaks in Maharashtra's Airoli and Vashi Creek, predominantly affecting Avicennia marina. In Kannur, epidemic-level infestations were recorded in 2024, with sporadic occurrences during the monsoon months. The larvae of H. puera not only feed on mangroves but also pupate on other plant species, including Volkameria inermis (Lamiaceae), Derris trifoliate (Fabaceae), Rhizophora mucronata (Rhizophoraceae), Acanthus ilicifolius (Acanthaceae), Avicennia officinalis (Acanthaceae), and Bruguiera cylindrical (Rhizophoraceae), further expanding their impact on the local flora. This species was previously documented in Brazil, with the first report in Paraná in 2016. During the infestation in Kerala, various natural predators, including birds, snails, spiders, and many parasitoids, were observed interacting with the pest, indicating their potential as biological control agents. This study evaluates the impact of H. puera on Kerala’s mangroves and explores management strategies to protect these ecosystems. Potential control methods include leveraging natural predators as biological control agents, chemical treatments, or physical removal techniques. By assessing the scale of the infestation and developing effective control measures, this research aims to mitigate the detrimental effects of H. puera on Kerala's rich coastal mangrove environment.