First report of Thaumastocoris peregrinus in Portugal
The occurrence of Thaumastocoris peregrinus (Hemiptera: Thaumastocoridae – EPPO Alert List) is reported for the first time from Portugal. This pest was initially detected in April 2012 in a eucalyptus arboretum in Lisbon during a research project (Garcia et al., 2013). A survey showed that T. peregrinus occurred in 2 urban areas in Lisbon (Tapada da Ajuda and Zoo parks) and in Fernão Ferro (Setúbal peninsula). In May 2014, the outbreak was confirmed by the Portuguese NPPO. High infestation levels (;50% of young leaves showing symptoms) were observed on Eucalyptus camaldulensis, but not on E. globolus which is the main eucalyptus species in Portugal. The source of this outbreak remains unknown but it is suspected that infested wood or fresh foliage from South America may have introduced the pest. No specific measures were taken, although an intensive survey will be conducted to determine the pest distribution in Portugal and to determine any possible measures. It is also noted that during the initial scientific studies, Hemerobius bolivari (Neuroptera: Hemerobiidae) was observed preying on T. peregrinus nymphs. It is suspected that this predator originating from South America, may have reached Europe together with its prey.
The situation of Thaumastocoris peregrinus in Portugal can be described as follows: Present, first found in 2012, occurring only in some areas (Lisbon, Setúbal peninsula).
Sources
NPPO of Portugal (2014-07).
Garcia A, Figueiredo E, Valente C, Monserrat V, Branco M (2013) First record of Thaumastocoris peregrinus in Portugal and the neotropical predator Hemerobius bolivari in Europe. Bulletin of Insectology 66(2), 251-256.