New findings of Strauzia longipennis in Germany
In 2010, the presence of Strauzia longipennis (Diptera: Tephritidae – EPPO Alert List) was detected for the first time in Germany on sunflower plants (Helianthus annuus) in private gardens in Berlin (EPPO RS 2011/037). A specific survey for S. longipennis was initiated in 2011 in Berlin and Brandenburg. As a result, the pest was found at several locations in the urban area of Berlin and in 27 sunflower fields in Brandenburg. It is presumed that S. longipennis is now established in the area of Berlin where signs of infestation (plant lodging, deformation of stems and flowers) have been observed in some gardens. A field trial was carried out by JKI at Kleinmachnow which showed that heavily infested sunflower plants did express symptoms. Until now, no damage has been observed in sunflower cultivation in Brandenburg presumably because the infestation levels in commercial fields were much lower than in single plants in Berlin gardens or in the field trial at Kleinmachnow. However, it is considered that if populations of S. longipennis increase (which may happen under the suitable climatic conditions prevailing in Germany and the absence of biological control agents) damage is likely to be observed in sunflower crops. No official control measures have been taken against S. longipennis but monitoring activities will continue in 2012 and management measures will be developed.
The pest status of Strauzia longipennis in Germany is officially declared as: Present, only in some areas (Berlin, Brandenburg).
Sources
NPPO of Germany (2012-02).