The potato tuber moth Phthorimaea operculella Zeller is the most serious
insect pest of potatoes worldwide (Fig. 11.2). It is generally recognized as
having originated in South America where the potato also originated and
is well adapted to plants with high glycoalkaloid levels (Goldson and
Emberson 1985). Other species related to the potato tuber moth (e.g.
Symmetrischema tangolias) are found in South and Central America and
have similar life cycles and habits. P. operculella is of greatest importance