First report of an Epitrix species on potato in Italy
The NPPO of Italy recently informed the EPPO Secretariat of the possible presence on its territory of an Epitrix species (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae) damaging potato tubers (Solanum tuberosum). In October 2024, a professional operator in Emilia-Romagna region found several potato tubers presenting signs of infestation by an Epitrix sp. in refrigerated storage. Official samples were taken and an investigation into the possible pathway of introduction is ongoing. Official measures according to EU regulation 2012/270/EU are implemented. Four Epitrix species damaging potato tubers are listed by EPPO: Epitrix tuberis and E. subcrinita on EPPO A1 List, and E. cucumeris and E. papa on EPPO A2 List.
The pest status of Epitrix sp. in Italy is officially declared as: Transient, actionable, under eradication.
Sources
PO of Italy (2024-10).
Commission Implementing Decision of 16 May 2012 as regards emergency measures to prevent the introduction into and the spread within the Union of Epitrix cucumeris (Harris), Epitrix papa sp. n., Epitrix subcrinita (Lec.) and Epitrix tuberis (Gentner) (2012/270/EU). http://data.europa.eu/eli/dec_impl/2012/270/2018-01-05