Situation of Gonipterus scutellatus in Spain
In 1991, Gonipterus scutellatus (EPPO A2 quarantine pest) was found for the first time in Galicia (ES) near Pontevedra, on Eucalyptus globosus, and serious defoliation was observed. Since then surveys have been carried out in eucalyptus plantations and showed that G. scutellatus has spread in Galicia around Pontevedra, within of radius of 45 km approximately. Control methods were studied and it appeared that release of the egg parasite Anaphes nitens is the most efficient means of control. The authors stressed the need to establish efficient control programmes to prevent further spread of this pest. The EPPO Secretariat had not previously documented the introduction of this pest into Spain.
Sources
Mansilla, J.P.; Salinero, M.C.; Pérez, R. (1995) Révisión del área de dispersión de Gonipterus scutellatus Gyll. en Galicia.
Boletín de Sanidad Vegetal - Plagas, 21(2), 277-280.