First report of Spodoptera frugiperda in Réunion
The NPPO of France recently informed the EPPO Secretariat of the first record of Spodoptera frugiperda (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae – EPPO A1 List) in Réunion. The pest was discovered in September 2018 during specific surveys. The pest was found in 2 maize (Zea mays) production sites where only 1 to 2% of the plants were attacked. The identity of the pest was confirmed on the basis of its morphological characteristics by the French national reference laboratory (ANSES). Additional surveys will be carried out on the island of Réunion to better determine the extent of the infestation and official control measures are being elaborated.
The pest status of Spodoptera frugiperda in Réunion is officially declared as: Present, only in some areas.
Sources
NPPO of France (2018-10).