Update of the situation of Spodoptera frugiperda in Cyprus
In Cyprus the fall armyworm, Spodoptera frugiperda (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae – EPPO A2 List) was first caught in a light trap in January 2023 in Pissouri Village (Limassol district) (EPPO RS 2023/034). Official surveys were conducted and the NPPO of Cyprus reported that a larva has been found in a maize (Zea mays) crop in Larnaca district in June 2023, and multiple larvae in maize crops for animal feed in Nicosia district in July 2023. An infested area has been demarcated, as well as a buffer zone. Official measures are taken to eradicate the outbreaks.
The pest status of Spodoptera frugiperda in Cyprus is officially declared as: Present, at low prevalence, only in some parts of the Member State concerned, under eradication.
Sources
NPPO of Cyprus (2023-08).