New outbreak of Anoplophora chinensis in Italy
In Italy, the presence of Anoplophora chinensis (Coleoptera: Cerambycidae – EPPO A2 List) has been reported in Lombardia (provinces of Milano, Varese, Brescia) and in Lazio (city of Roma) where it is subject to eradication measures (see EPPO RS 2011/192). In June 2014, a new outbreak of A. chinensis was found in 2 adjacent areas (about 300 m apart) in the municipality of Prato, in Toscana region. A. chinensis was found on trees of Acer negundo (urban area) and A. palmatum (cultivated plot) during the official survey for Anoplophora species carried out by the Regional Plant Protection Service. It was identified morphologically by the Agricultural Research Council Laboratory and further molecular analysis is being carried out. Phytosanitary measures were taken to eradicate the pest and included the following: destruction of all infested plants, felling and examination of all potential hosts within a radius of 100 m around infested plants, establishment of a demarcated area with a 2 km buffer zone, intensive survey of the affected area, ban on nursery activities.
The pest status of Anoplophora chinensis in Italy is officially declared as: Present, under eradication.
Sources
NPPO of Italy (2014-07).