First report of Dryocosmus kuriphilus in Portugal
The NPPO of Portugal recently informed the EPPO Secretariat of the first record of Dryocosmus kuriphilus (Hymenoptera: Cynipidae - EPPO A2 List) on its territory. The pest was first found in May 2014 in the municipality of Barcelos, Northwestern Portugal on Castanea sativa trees grown for fruit and wood production. The regional PPO was contacted by the owner of scattered chestnut trees who had observed unusual symptoms. A sample was collected to confirm the identity of the pest on the basis of its morphological characteristics. Intensive surveys are currently being carried out by the regional PPO to determine the extent of the infested area. At present, symptoms have been found in chestnut trees (including large mature trees) within an area of 7.5 km radius. The source of this outbreak is unknown but possibly related to the introduction of infested propagating material. The following phytosanitary measures were immediately taken: pruning and destruction of affected branches (to lower the infestation pressure, although some adults have already emerged), intensive survey and establishment of a demarcated area, prohibition of movements of plants out of the demarcated area. An action plan is being elaborated in order to define possible measures, including biological control which could start in 2015.
The situation of Dryocosmus kuriphilus in Portugal can be described as follows: Present, first found in May 2014 in the municipality of Barcelos, Northwestern Portugal, under official control.
Sources
NPPO of Portugal (2014-06).