EPPO Global Database

Harmonia axyridis(HARNAX)

Distribution details in Tunisia

Situation
Current pest situation evaluated by EPPO on the basis of information dated 2018: Present, no details
Comments
Mentioned as used in Tunisia as a biocontrol agent (deliberately released) but there is no evidence of establishment.

Presence confirmed by Ben Halima et al. (2018). Two specimens were found in Pinus halepensis in the municipality of Akouda in March 2018. Further studies are needed to confirm establishment.
References
* Ben Halima KM, Mdellel L, Zouari S, Adouani R (2018) Occurrence of Harmonia axyridis in Tunisia. Bulletin OEPP/EPPO Bulletin 48(2), 307-308.

* Brown PMJ, Thomas CE, Lombaert E, Jeffries DL, Estoup A, Lawson Handley LJ (2011) The global spread of Harmonia axyridis (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae): distribution, dispersal and routes of invasion. BioControl 56(4), 623-641.

* EPPO (2011) EPPO Standards PM 6/3 Safe use of biological control. List of biological control agents widely used in the EPPO region. APPENDIX III - List of biological control agents formerly recommended by EPPO.
http://archives.eppo.org/EPPOStandards/biocontrol_web/deletions.htm#list2