Update on the situation of Aculops fuchsiae in Jersey
As reported in EPPO RS 2007/109, Aculops fuchsiae (Acari: Eriophyidae – EPPO A2 List) was first observed in Jersey in 2006 in a public park. In 2007 further infestations were reported in several gardens, including the garden of an amateur who had brought fuchsia material from South America, escaping any phytosanitary controls. His entire collection of more than 150 fuchsia varieties was heavily infested. The presence of A. fuchsiae on the island was publicized and it became clear that the pest was widespread with more than 200 properties affected. When considering prevailing winds, it was observed that most of these infestations were located downwind from the amateur fuchsia collection mentioned above. The outbreak is mainly concentrated in St Helier (central south coast) but A. fuchsiae is also being reported in low numbers and isolated sites on the east, west and centre of the island. In all cases, affected plants were destroyed. Chemical control has not been attempted because it was felt too costly and unlikely to be effective due to the advanced stage of galling on some plants and the pressure of reinvasion. It was also advised not to plant any fuchsias for the foreseeable future.
The situation of Aculops fuchsiae in Jersey can be described as follows: Present, mainly around St Helier, under eradication.
Sources
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NPPO of Jersey, 2007-10.
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