Anoplophora glabripennis found in Piemonte, Italy
The NPPO of Italy recently informed the EPPO Secretariat of the detection of Anoplophora glabripennis (Coleoptera: Cerambycidae – EPPO A2 List) in Piemonte region. In July 2018, A. glabripennis was found in the municipality of Vaie (Torino province). The pest itself or signs of the pest were observed on 2 Acer sp. plants in a small urban park, on 23 ornamental Acer sp. plants along a road, and on 1 Salix plant. On 2 Acer sp. trees (12 m high), adults, larvae, eggs and exit holes were observed. On other plants (of smaller size), only signs of the pest (oviposition pits and holes) were observed. Phytosanitary measures have been taken in accordance with decision 2015/893/EU. In particular, a demarcated area was established, trees to be felled were identified, and 3 insecticide treatments were applied. An information campaign has also been launched. In September 2018, A. glabripennis was also found in the municipality of Cuneo (Cuneo province). The infestation concerned 4 Acer plants located in a urban area. As above, phytosanitary measures were taken in accordance with decision 2015/893/EU. The origin of these two outbreaks in Piemonte is unknown, but investigations are ongoing.
The pest status of Anoplophora glabripennis in Italy is officially declared as: Present, under eradication.
Sources
NPPO of Italy (2018-09).