Light brown apple moths have been found in Cayucos

San Luis Obispo County agricultural inspectors have found two light brown apple moths in Cayucos.

The adult insects were found in traps placed in residential landscapes. Additional traps have been placed throughout the community in an effort to determine the extent of the infestation.

The light brown apple moth is an invasive species from Australia and is considered a serious pest with the potential to damage hundreds of species of plants including native plants, ornamental plants and food crops, particularly citrus, grape and other fruit crops.

The moth was found last summer in Los Osos and Nipomo. County agriculture officials urge residents of Cayucos to contact the department at 781-5910 before moving plants out of the area to prevent spread of the pest.

This story was originally published August 9, 2011 at 4:25 PM with the headline "Light brown apple moths have been found in Cayucos."