First report of Tecia solanivora in mainland Spain
In November 2015, the presence of Tecia solanivora (Lepidoptera, Gelechiidae – EPPO A2 List) was reported for the first time in mainland Spain. It can be recalled that this pest had initially been detected in Islas Canarias in 1999 (EPPO RS 2001/129) where it is established but under official control. T. solanivora occurs in Central and South America where it is a serious pest of potato. Its larvae feed exclusively on potato tubers both in the field and in storage. In mainland Spain, T. solanivora has recently been detected in Galicia, in the municipalities of Ferrol, Narón and Neda (province of La Coruña). Phytosanitary measures are being implemented to eradicate the pest, and include: establishment of demarcated zones, destruction of infested tubers, mass trapping with pheromone traps, use of healthy seed potatoes, insecticide treatments, hygiene measures in the field and in stores, restrictions on the movements of potato tubers.
The situation of Tecia solanivora in Spain can be described as follows: Present, only in some areas; first found in Islas Canarias in 1999 (under official control) and in Galicia in 2015 (under eradication).
Sources
Diario Oficial de Galicia (2015-11-03) no. 209, p 42042. http://www.xunta.es/dog/Publicados/2015/20151103/AnuncioG0426-231015-0002_es.html