First record of Diabrotica virgifera in Europe
The EPPO secretariat has been informed that Diabrotica virgifera virgifera (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae) commonly known as the western corn rootworm has been introduced into Serbia (YU). The pest was found in a small field in the surrounding area of Belgrade International Airport in 1992. It is, therefore, assumed that the pest was introduced via air transport. The identification of D. virgifera virgifera was confirmed by Dr J. Krysan, National Programme Manager of the Laboratory for Insect Systematics in Beltsville (US). The pest is considered to be very harmful to maize and was previously recorded to occur in North America only. Observations in Serbia showed that the pest is extremely damaging and that it covers large distances relatively quickly. More detailed studies in summer 1993 showed that the pest had spread fast. It has spread from the Burcin Plateau to the northwest into Lower Srem crossing both the Sava and Danube rivers. Currently Serbian plant protection authorities are investigating means to control and eradicate the pest.
Sources
Maize Research Institute, Zemun Polje (1993-11)
Baca, F. (1993) New member of the harmful entomofauna of Yugoslavia.
Report at the "XXI Yugoslavian Entomological Conference", Belgrade, ;1993-11-17/18.