Details on Rhynchophorus ferrugineus in Sicilia (Italy)
The presence of Rhynchophorus ferrugineus (Coleoptera: Curculionidae – EPPO Alert List) in Italy was recently reported in Campania, Toscana and Sicilia (EPPO RS 2006/001). Further details can now be provided for the situation in Sicilia. R. ferrugineus was first found in October 2005 on 4 Phoenix canariensis trees of approximately 100-years old in the historical centre of the city of Acireale. Other infestations were then found on P. canariensis in private gardens, public squares and parks in the nearby cities of Aci Castello, S. Giovanni La Punta, Trecastagni and Catania. Until now, no infestation has been detected in palm nurseries. Surveys are being carried out to delimit the outbreak in Sicilia and measures are being implemented to prevent any further spread.
Sources
Website of the ‘Associazione Italiana Direttori Tecnici Pubblici Giardini’.
Gravi infestazioni di punteruolo rosso delle palme (Rhynchophorus ferrugineus) presso importanti centri storici della Sicilia orientale.
http://www.pubblicigiardini.it/News/NewsDet.asp?id=2150