EPPO Global Database

EPPO Reporting Service no. 04 - 1991 Num. article: 1991/05

Black widow spiders in US grapes


Several consignments of grapes from the United States were intercepted by New Zealand authorities due to infestations with live black widow spiders (Latrodectus sp.).
Although black widow spiders are of no plant quarantine concern, there might be a health hazard for phytosanitary inspectors. There is also the possibility of a considerable public confusion if black widow spiders are liberated in supermarkets or similar public places.


Sources

Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries, New Zealand (1990-12)