Scientists discover 11 moth species never before recorded in Portugal

A two-year biodiversity survey in the Algarve has led to the discovery of 11 moth species never before recorded in Portugal.

The findings come from a study commissioned by Loulé Municipal Council and carried out by conservation association Vita Nativa, with the results now published in the Bulletin of the Spanish Entomological Society.

Researchers used light traps, larval surveys and existing scientific records to compile the first comprehensive inventory of moths in the municipality.

Their fieldwork, conducted in 2024 and 2025, identified 706 species, including 11 species that are new to Portugal’s fauna.

When combined with previous scientific records, the study documents 926 moth species in Loulé – representing more than one-third of all moth species known from mainland Portugal.

The newly recorded species were found in several parts of the municipality, including Trafal, Ameixial, Fonte da Benémola, Lagoa da Nave, Rocha da Pena, Ancão, Vale Telheiro, Cerro de Cabeça de Câmara and Ludo.

According to the local council, the project forms part of its wider strategy to promote scientific research and improve knowledge of the municipality’s natural heritage, particularly within its protected landscapes.

The full study has been published in the Bulletin of the Spanish Entomological Society.

The 11 moth species newly recorded in Portugal

Trifurcula coronillae

Reisserita haasi

Dextellia dorsilineella

Anarsia bilbainella

Tiranimia epidolella

Ochrodia subdiminutella

Coleophora afrosarda

Coleophora sarehma

Alucita acutata

Bactra bactrana

Mesocrambus salahinellus

Michael Bruxo

Journalist for the Portugal Resident.