Rhynchophorus ferrugineus found for the first time in Bretagne region (FR)
The NPPO of France recently informed the EPPO Secretariat of the first finding of Rhynchophorus ferrugineus (Coleoptera: Curculionidae – EPPO A2 List) in the Morbihan department, Bretagne region. Previously, R. ferrugineus was only reported from Southern France (Mediterranean coast and Corse). The pest was found in 8 palm trees (Phoenix canariensis and Washingtonia robusta) grown in private gardens in the municipalities of Ploemeur, Larmor-Plage, Locmiquélic, Moréac, Plaudren, and Caudan.
In April 2013, the regional PPO was alerted by the owner of a private garden in Ploemeur. During the inspection, all stages of R. ferrugineus (eggs, larvae, adults) were found on a P.;canariensis. The identity of the pest was confirmed in May 2013 by the Anses plant health laboratory. Tracing-back studies revealed that this infested P. canariensis belonged to a lot of palm trees imported from a Spanish nursery which had been sold at various dates to private owners living in 6 different municipalities (see above). All palm trees belonging to this lot which were subsequently inspected were also found to be infested. Investigations are continuing to trace-back all other palm trees possibly coming from the same origin. The NPPO of Spain has been informed. All infested palm trees have been destroyed (by burning under official supervision) and phytosanitary measures have been taken in accordance with the amended EU Decision 2007/365/EC.
The pest status of Rhynchophorus ferrugineus in France is officially declared as: Present, under eradication.
Sources
NPPO of France (2013-05).