Situation of Aleurocanthus spiniferus in Puglia region (IT)
The NPPO of Italy recently informed the EPPO Secretariat of the current situation of Aleurocanthus spiniferus (Homoptera: Aleyrodidae – EPPO A1 List) in Puglia region. It can be recalled that A. spiniferus was first found in 2008 in the province of Lecce (EPPO RS 2008/092). Surveys have shown that infestations are particularly severe on citrus, and that the pest is also present on grapevine, pome and stone fruits, as well as in urban environments on ornamental plants. A. spiniferus now occurs almost across the entire province of Lecce and it threatens the neighbouring provinces of Brindisi and Taranto. The NPPO of Italy considers that A. spiniferus is now established and that eradication is no longer feasible. As the application of insecticides is not considered effective, the use of biological control agents (such as Encarsia smithi, Eretmocerus serius and Amitus hesperidum) is envisaged.
The situation of Aleurocanthus spiniferus in Italy can be described as follows: Present, first identified in 2008 in the province of Lecce (Puglia region), now established across this province.
Sources
NPPO of Italy (2010-07).