First report of Xylosandrus compactus in France
The NPPO of France recently informed the EPPO Secretariat of the first finding of Xylosandrus compactus (Coleoptera: Scolytidae) on its territory. In September 2016, X. compactus was found on ornamental plants (Arbutus unedo, Laurus nobilis, Phillyrea sp., and Quercus ilex) by professional gardeners in the Provence-Alpes-Côte-d’Azur region (Southern France). Affected plants showed desiccation and damage was considered to be limited (alteration of plant aesthetic appearance). The identity of the pest was confirmed by the official French reference laboratory using morphological methods. No official phytosanitary measures were undertaken.
The pest status of Xylosandrus compactus in France is officially declared as: Present, only in some areas: Provence-Alpes-Côte-d’Azur region.
Sources
NPPO of France (2016-11).