Update on the situation of Diabrotica virgifera in Belgium
The NPPO of Belgium informed the EPPO Secretariat of the current situation of Diabrotica virgifera (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae – EPPO A2 list) on its territory. It can be recalled that the pest was detected for the first time in Belgium in 2003, near the airport of Zaventem (Brussels, see EPPO RS 2003/143). In 2004, the first finding was made on the 6th of September. One adult was caught in a maize field in Kampenhout, within the existing buffer zone delimited in 2003. Later in September, D. virgifera was found in two other localities (Kraainem and Steenokkerzeel). On the 5th of October, the pest was located at Wezembeek-Oppem. All these new infestation sites are located within the existing buffer zone. Focus zones of 1 km radius were delimited around infected fields and the buffer zone (5 km radius) was modified accordingly (maps can be viewed on Internet). Phytosanitary measures are being applied according to EU Decision 2003/766/EC.
The situation of D. virgifera in Belgium can be described as follows: Few specimens trapped near Zaventem airport, under eradication.
Sources
NPPO of Belgium, 2004-09.
Web site Agence Fédérale pour la Sécurité de la Chaîne Alimentaire
http://www.favv-afsca.fgov.be (secteurs professionnels > production végétale > aspects phytosanitaires > maladies et Pestes > chrysomèle des racines du maïs)