First Record of the Palm Borer Moth, Paysandisia archon (Lepidoptera: Castniidae), in Montenegro

Paysandisia archon (Burmeister 1880) is a large, diurnal moth of South American origin (family Castniidae), which has become an invasive pest of ornamental palms across various parts of Europe. Since its accidental introduction via the ornamental plant trade around the year 2000, the species has rapidly expanded its range, being recorded in multiple European countries, including Spain, France, Italy, Greece, Slovenia, Croatia, and Albania. In this study, we report the first confirmed record of P. archon in Montenegro, representing a new country record for both the species and the family Castniidae. Two female specimens were recorded in June 2023 in the coastal area of Donji Štoj, Ulcinj municipality, southern Montenegro. One specimen was collected using an entomological net, while the second was found as a roadkill. A third individual was observed in flight but not captured. Given the characteristic morphology and flight behavior of the species, misidentification is highly unlikely. The widespread presence of ornamental palms in the Montenegrin coastal region, along with favorable Mediterranean climatic conditions, suggests the potential establishment of a local population. This underscores the need for continued monitoring, particularly through citizen science initiatives. Similar approaches have proven successful in neighboring countries such as Croatia, where a recent study documented 112 observations, mostly contributed by volunteers. Considering the ongoing spread of P. archon and increasing palm cultivation in southeastern Europe, we also highlight the potential for future establishment in Romania, especially along the Black Sea coast. This record from Montenegro emphasizes the continued expansion of P. archon in the region and the growing importance of public engagement in invasive species monitoring.