First record of Prostephanus truncatus in South Africa
In May 1999, Prostephanus truncatus (large grain borer) was reported for the first time from South Africa. As part of a regular monitoring programme, 75 pheromone traps were placed along the borderline of South Africa. Three specimens were trapped (in 3 traps) in an isolated area on the north-eastern borders of the Kruger National Park adjacent to Zimbabwe and Mozambique. Measures are being taken to prevent any further spread of this pest. P. truncatus attacks a wide range of stored products (seeds, grains, meal, bran, wood etc.). It is particularly damaging to maize cobs which can be attacked in the field or after harvest. P. truncatus originates from Central America. It has been introduced into Tanzania in 1980, and is now spreading in Africa where it causes very serious problems on stored products. This is the first record of Prostephanus truncatus in South Africa.
Sources
Ministry of Agriculture of South Africa, IPPC Secretariat, 1999-05.