Diabrotica virgifera virgifera found again in Belgium
In Belgium, Diabrotica virgifera virgifera (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae – EPPO A2 List) was first found in 2003 near the airport of Zaventem (Brussels) and eradicated in 2010 (see EPPO RS 2003/143 and 2010/095). However, after several years of absence, the pest was found again. In the framework of the national monitoring programme, 4 specimens were caught on 2014-07-24 in a pheromone trap located in a maize field near Machelen (again close to the airport of Zaventem). After delimiting the focus and safety zones in accordance with the Belgian Ministerial Decree of the 25th of July 2014 on control measures against D. virgivera virgifera, 2 more specimens were caught on 2014-07-30 in 2 different traps in the demarcated area, which was modified accordingly.
The pest status of Diabrotica virgifera virgifera in Belgium is officially declared as: Transient: actionable, under eradication.
Sources
NPPO of Belgium (2014-08).
INTERNET
Agence Fédérale pour la Sécurité de la Chaine Alimentaire (AFSCA).
Chrysomèle des racines du maïs. http://www.afsca.be/productionvegetale/maladies/chrysomelemais/
Arrêté Ministériel du 25 juillet 2014 portant des mesures temporaires de lutte contre la chrysomèle du maïs, Diabrotica virgifera Le Conte.