Update on the situation of Epitrix papa in Spain
The presence of Epitrix papa (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae - EPPO A2 List) in Spain was first recorded in 2009 in Galicia. At the time, the insect was identified as E. similaris due to complex taxonomic issues which were later resolved (EPPO RS 2011/078, 2014/068, 2015/203). In 2017, official surveys on Epitrix species were conducted and several new outbreaks of E. papa were detected. In all cases, official phytosanitary measures were taken to eradicate the pest.
- In May 2017, the presence of E. papa was confirmed in a potato (Solanum tuberosum) field in the municipality of Coria del Río (province of Sevilla, Andalucía). Only 1 larva and some symptomatic potato tubers were detected, suggesting that the pest population was low.
- In May 2017, E. papa was detected in Solanum nigrum plants growing in the borders of 4 potato fields, in the municipality of Torrox (province of Málaga, Andalucía). This was the first time that E. papa was found in the province of Málaga.
- In May 2017, adults of E. papa were collected on S. nigrum plants growing in the borders of a potato plot in the municipality of Jerez de la Frontera (province of Cádiz, Andalucía). The identity of the pest was confirmed in June 2017.
- In June 2017, E. papa was detected in 4 potato fields, located in the municipality of Coín (province of Málaga, Andalucía).
The pest status of Epitrix papa in Spain is officially declared as: Present, under eradication, only in some parts of the Member State concerned.
Sources
NPPO of Spain (2017-05, 2017-07).