Liriomyza huidobrensis eradicated in Finland
In October 1992, the Finnish plant protection authorities found Liriomyza huidobrensis (EPPO A2 quarantine pest) in one glasshouse in Finland. Two other infections were found thereafter (see EPPO Reporting Service 93/014, 1993 No. 1). In all cases the damage was very serious. After the detection of the pest Finnish authorities immediately started to implement an eradication programme which included the destruction of all infested plant material as well as the potential hosts in the compartments of the glasshouses. The whole production sites, including the construction of the buildings, soil etc. were disinfected carefully. Chemical compounds were used regularly. Additionally, in January 1993, the Finnish authorities found infections of L. huidobrensis in two consignments of Senecio species from The Netherlands after their introduction into glasshouses. The time, however, between the introduction of the pest and its detection was too short for an establishment of the pest within the establishment. In order to confirm the absence of L. huidobrensis from Finland a survey was carried out comprising the inspection of 200 glasshouses. No further infestations by L. huidobrensis were found.
On the basis of the eradication programme and the results of the conducted survey, the Plant Production Inspection Centre of Finland considers L. huidobrensis as eradicated.
Sources
Plant Production Inspection Centre, Helsinki (1993-04)