Dryocosmus kuriphilus found in Hungary
In Hungary, isolated findings of Dryocosmus kuriphilus (Hymenoptera: Cynipidae – EPPO A2 List) had been recorded in 2009 and 2010 (EPPO RS 2009/155, 2010/135) but were subsequently eradicated. On 2013-06-18, the owner of a neglected meadow informed the NPPO of the presence of galls on an old chestnut tree (Castanea sativa). The presence of D. kuriphilus was confirmed by the NPPO laboratory in samples which had been collected from this chestnut tree. The pest was identified on the basis of its morphological characteristics. A survey was carried out within a few kilometres around the infested tree, and it was observed that several trees (10 to 25 years-old) were also presenting galls. This is the first time that D. kuriphilus is found in non-managed environment in Hungary; all previous findings were related to the introduction of Castanea plants for planting from Italy. It is noted that the infested site is located in the Southwestern part of Hungary, 5;km away from the borders with Slovenia and Croatia, countries in which the pest already occurs in afforested areas. Although the exact origin of this introduction is unknown, the NPPO noted that considering the location of the infested trees, the current outbreak is likely to be the consequence of natural spread from neighbouring countries. Phytosanitary measures were taken including: demarcation of an area of 15 km radius around infested trees, surveys within the demarcated area, prohibition to move chestnut trees within or out of the demarcated area. The Forestry Directorate which is carrying surveys in forest areas in Hungary was requested to focus its attention more particularly on D. kuriphilus. Finally, the NPPOs of Slovenia and Croatia have been informed about the demarcated areas which are outlying to their territories.
The pest status of Dryocosmus kuriphilus in Hungary is officially declared as: Present in some areas of Hungary.
Sources
NPPO of Hungary (2013-07).