Update on the situation of Scirtothrips aurantii in Sicilia (Italy)
Scirtothrips aurantii (Thysanoptera: Thripidae – EPPO A1 List) was first detected in January 2026 (EPPO RS 2026/030) in citrus growing areas of Catania and Siracusa provinces (Sicilia) on orange trees (Citrus x aurantium var. sinensis).
In February 2026, S. aurantii was found on blueberry crops (Vaccinium corymbosum) showing minor leaf lesions, growing in a greenhouse in the Acate area (Ragusa province). This finding resulted from a traceback survey following an interception by the Phytosanitary Service of the Lombardia region. S. aurantii was found in high numbers throughout the greenhouse. This is the first report of S. aurantii in Ragusa province. In April 2026, the presence of S. aurantii was officially confirmed by molecular testing by the national reference laboratory. Surveys are being conducted to delimit the infested area. Official measures will be taken with the aim of eradicating the outbreak.
The pest status of Scirtothrips aurantii in Italy is officially declared as: Present, under eradication.
Sources
NPPO of Italy (2026-04).