Details on Cacyreus marshalli in France
Cacyreus marshalli (EPPO A2 quarantine pest), a pelargonium pest, was first found in France in the départment of Pyrénées Orientales (south of France) in 1997 (EPPO RS 98/080). It is now present around the Mediterranean coast in the following départements: Alpes-Maritimes, Aude and Hérault. Data is still lacking to assess its potential for establishment in France. However, it seems that climatic conditions in the Mediterranean area are favourable to the survival of C. marshalli during winter. In northern parts of France, it can develop under glasshouse conditions. It is also noted that, in many cases, pelargonium plants are kept indoors by gardeners and this may ensure survival of the pest during winter. In order to avoid further spread it is necessary to verify that the insect (eggs and larvae) is not present on plants and cuttings sent to areas where it is still absent. It is also noted that chemical control is difficult, as larvae live inside the plants, and this renders eradication difficult.
Sources
Germain, J.F. (1999) Un nouveau ravageur des 'géraniums' en France. Les chenilles de Cacyreus marshalli Butler s'attaquent aux hybrides de Pelargonium cultivés.
Phytoma - La Défense des Végétaux, no. 513, 53-55.