Further details on the situation of Paysandisia archon in Northern Italy in 2008
In Liguria region (Northern Italy), specimens of Paysandisia archon (Lepidoptera: Castiniidae – EPPO A2 List) were caught in July 2008. The insect had already been observed in the southern and central parts of Italy (EPPO RS 2004/162, 2005/051, 2006/105). Specimens were trapped on a single palm (Phoenix canariensis) recently transplanted at 1 site in the Liguria region (Varazze – province of Savona) by the Regional Plant Protection Service of Liguria (Servizio Fitosanitario - Regione Liguria). Specimens were sent to the Centro Regionale di Sperimentazione ed Assistenza Agricola (CERSAA – Albenga, province of Savona) for a first diagnosis. The identity of the insects caught was confirmed by the University of Torino (Di.Va.P.R.A. – Entomologia). In July 2008 the infested palm tree, previously removed and wrapped with a plastic film, was cut into pieces and destroyed. Palm trees in surrounding areas were monitored to check for the presence of the insect and so far, no other infestations have been detected.
The situation of Paysandisia archon in Italy can be described as follows: Present, found in several regions (Apulia, Campania, Liguria, Marche, Toscana, Sicilia), under official control.
Sources
Personal communication with Centro Regionale di Sperimentazione ed Assistenza Agricola (CERSAA – Albenga, Savona, IT), 2008-07.