Finding of Popillia japonica in Nova Scotia, Canada
Until summer 2001, Popillia japonica (EPPO A2 quarantine pest) was only reported in Canada in small areas in the provinces of Ontario and Québec. An earlier infestation in Nova Scotia had been eradicated in 1951. In August 2001, feeding adults of P. japonica were identified in Cornwallis Park, in Halifax (Nova Scotia). Traps were placed in the park and within a radius of 1.6 km around it. As a result, more than 800 adults were caught (600 in the park itself). Soil surveys were done around all positive traps and larvae were identified within the limits of the park. So far, it has not been possible to trace back the source of this infestation. As the distribution of P. japonica is limited, eradication appears feasible. Phytosanitary measures will include restrictions on the movement of potentially infested material, intensive trapping of adults, removal of preferred host plants for larvae, chemical treatments etc. Surveys will continue to monitor the situation of P. japonica in the park and its vicinity.
Sources
Miller-Cormier, D. (2002) Japanese beetle in Halifax, Nova Scotia.
NAPPO Newsletter, September, p. 9