Ophiusa tirhaca Cramer (Noctuidae: Lepidoptera) infesting pistachio trees in Israel

Abstract Ophiusa (Anua) tirhaca moths were trapped by mercury vapour light traps, throughout the year in most parts of the country, with a peak in July-August. There are three overlapping generations per year. The larvae occasionally cause severe damage to leaves of young pistachio trees; they are difficult to detect during the day, being closely attached to the branches and resembling them in shape and colour.