The finding of a second Colorado beetle larvae in Kent on Friday 11 August, just weeks after another sighting in the region – the first since 1977 – means growers need to be increasingly vigilant say advisors.
Defra and the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) said the finding of a single adult male Colorado beetle was discovered within a 1km surveillance zone in Kent.
According to the APHA, its age, and the fact that no additional colony was detected, mean that the latest sighting probably dispersed from the original site.
UK Chief Plant Health Officer, Nicola Spence said, “Following a report, our experts have identified the presence of Colorado beetle larvae in a potato field in Kent. We are responding swiftly through our eradication programme, involving ground surveillance to look for beetles and larvae at the outbreak site and surrounding area.
“Whilst this pest does not pose a threat to human health, we encourage all growers, farmers, processors and the public to remain vigilant and report any sightings, especially in Kent.”
Farmers and growers are being encouraged to remain vigilant for signs of the pest. The beetle is bright yellow or orange with black stripes and is usually between 8.5-11.5mm in length and 3mm in width. Its larvae are a reddish brown in colour, round and globular, and up to 15mm in length.
Defra and APHA said surveillance for any possible undetected colonies will continue within the 1km surveillance zone.
Any suspected findings of the Colorado potato beetle or its larvae should be reported to the Animal and Plant Health Agency, whether in a commercial, environmental, or domestic setting, by telephoning: 0300 1000 313.
