Update on the situation of Xylotrechus chinensis in Spain
Xylotrechus chinensis (Coleoptera: Cerambycidae, EPPO Alert List) was first reported in Spain in Catalonia in 2013 and in Comunidad Valenciana in 2018 (EPPO RS 2018/155, RS 2022/001).
Researchers conducted a study to assess the spread of the pest in Catalonia between 2020 and 2023, and identify potential control methods. The presence of the beetle was known from 12 municipalities in 2020. As of December 2023 X. chinensis had further spread in Catalonia to a total of 65 municipalities, covering 1134 km2. The municipalities are located in 2 provinces (56 in Barcelona province and 9 in Tarragona province).
It is also noted that the beetles can emerge between mid-May and the end of September (whereas it was previously recorded to emerge from mid-June to mid-August). This may be linked to increased temperatures associated with climate change. It should be taken into account when applying insecticide treatment to infested trees.
Sources
Sarto i Monteys V, Savin I, Tutusaus GT, Balsach MB (2024) New evidence on the spread in Catalonia of the invasive longhorn beetle, Xylotrechus chinensis, and the efficacy of abamectin control. Scientific Reports 14(1), 26754. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-024-78265-x