Update of the situation of Scirtothrips citri in Israel
Scirtothrips citri (Thysanoptera: Thripidae – EPPO A1 List) was first reported in Israel in spring 2022, from citrus groves in the Upper Galilee area (Northern Israel) (EPPO RS 2022/164). An extensive official survey has been conducted by the NPPO of Israel. As a result, S. citri was also detected in the northern Negev area. In this region, the pest is mainly found on jojoba trees (Simmondsia chinensis). In the Upper Galilee area, S. citri was found on grapevine (Vitis vinifera) in addition to Citrus plants.
The distribution of the species in two separate areas (approximately 200 km apart), strengthens the initial suspicion of the NPPO that the source of the outbreaks is illicit import of vegetative propagation material. In order to manage the pest outbreaks and prevent further spread, appropriate insecticides are applied. A range of insecticides is being registered against S. citri on different hosts. The official survey is maintained and any additional host or location is recorded and officially managed.
The pest status of Scirtothrips citri in Israel is officially declared as: Present: not widely distributed and under official control.
Sources
NPPO of Israel (2023-03).