Anoplophora chinensis detected in Pistoia (Toscana, IT)
The NPPO of Italy recently informed the EPPO Secretariat that a new outbreak of Anoplophora chinensis (Coleoptera: Cerambycidae – EPPO A2 List) was found in the municipality of Pistoia (Toscana region) in October 2017. During official inspections, signs of the presence of A. chinensis were observed in 4 ornamental nurseries, as well as in a few private gardens, on 166 plants (covering an area of 10 380 m²). Infested plants showed exit holes and sawdust at the collar, but no adult beetles were found. The following plants were showing signs of infestation: Acer (109 plants), Carpinus (28), Corylus (6), Fagus (6), Lagerstroemia indica (7), Malus (1), Platanus (1), Salix (1). Tracing-back investigations have been carried out, but the source of this outbreak could not be determined. Molecular analysis has shown that the genetic features of the pest found in Pistoia were different from the ones of other outbreaks in Italy. In accordance with Decision 2012/138/EU, phytosanitary measures were taken to eradicate the pest. These measures include a ban on the movements of host plants from the demarcated area, and the destruction of all host plants within a radius of 100 m around the infested plants.
The pest status of Anoplophora chinensis in Italy is officially declared as: Present, only in some parts of the member state concerned, under eradication.
Sources
NPPO of Italy (2017-11).