First report of Anthonomus eugenii in Italy
In November 2013, the presence of Anthonomus eugenii (Coleoptera: Curculionidae – EPPO A1 List) was reported for the first time in Italy. During official inspections, the pest was found in the municipalities of Fondi and Monte San Biagio (province of Latina, Lazio region) on Capsicum annuum crops grown under glasshouse (0.3 ha) and in the field (0.5 ha). The NPPO noted that this area is isolated from other horticultural areas by mountains. In infested crops, young capsicum fruits had fallen prematurely to the ground and showed oviposition marks and exit holes. In some fruits, living larvae and secondary rots could also be observed. However, as the pest was detected at the end of the growing season no severe economic damage was reported by the growers. The identity of the pest was confirmed by the University of Napoli. Phytosanitary measures were taken to eradicate A. eugenii and included: the destruction of infested capsicum crops, specific surveys of host plants to delimit the extent of the infestation, and an information campaign to warn growers and other stakeholders about the possible presence of A. eugenii. Preliminary results of surveys conducted in the province of Frosinone, where capsicum are commonly grown, did not detect the pest. Research studies are being carried out to develop control strategies against A. eugenii and a PRA is under way.
The pest status of Anthonomus eugenii in Italy is officially declared as: Transient, under eradication.
Sources
NPPO of Italy (2013-11).