Melitara dentata, the North American cactus moth, is a moth of the Pyralidae family. It is native to western North America, where it is widespread from Alberta to southern Arizona and central Texas. It is an introduced species in Hawaii. There is one generation per year. The larvae feed on Opuntia species, including Opuntia fragilis, Opuntia macrorhiza and Opuntia polyacantha. Pupation takes place in the silk cases.