A large number of dead Perigonia lusca (Lepidoptera, Sphingidae) larvae were observed in "Paraguay tea" (Ilex paraguariensis) plantations in the West of Paraná State. Live insects were collected from these fields, maintained on "Paraguay tea" leaves in laboratory and observed daily. The dead larvae were macerated and the resulting suspension was observed under microscope. Occlusion bodies typical of the Baculoviridae family were observed. The pathogenicity of the virus was confirmed by following procedures outlined in Koch's postulates. This is the first register of a virus in Perigonia lusca in Brazil.
Insecta; Ilex paraguariensis; entomopathogen; biological control