After the Asian hornet, a new harmful insect invades France – the authorities are worried

Originally from Asia, this small insect causes considerable damage. However, It was spotted for the first time in France in early July and spread quickly. However, Authorities have triggered a reinforced surveillance plan.

He travels discreetly, sneaking into the suitcases, cars, trucks and even trains, hence his nickname of self -topper. In addition, Spotted in recent years in Italy. Therefore, Switzerland and Germany, this insect from Asia crossed the French border in July 2025, as confirmed by a statement from the regional management of agriculture in the Grand Est. Furthermore, First appearances that seem isolated, but experts fear rapid spread, facilitated by human transport.

If he worries the authorities as much, it is because of his propagation and his appetite. Consequently, Once introduced into a new territory, it is quickly implanted and reproduced en masse. In addition, after asian hornet, new harmful Above all, he attacks an impressive list of plants: because it is an insect called Polyphage, which eats almost everything.

Because it is not satisfied with a single plant. Furthermore, it attacks more than 400 plant species: vines, corn, roses, strawberries, soy, fruit trees and ornamental trees. Its operating mode is particularly aggressive. In summer, adults come together on the plants and nibble on the leaves until only leave the ribs. Flowers and fruits are not spared. As for its larvae, they attack the roots directly, destroying meadows, lawns and sports fields.

At first glance, however, nothing suggests the damage he can cause. Belonging to the large family of beetles, it seems common and perfectly harmless. Measuring less than 1 cm, it looks like a banal scarab. It is after asian hornet, new harmful recognized by its iridescent colors – metallic green. copper on the wings – and a distinctive detail: small tufts of white bristles distributed around the abdomen. This sign makes it possible not to confuse it with the more classic Hannetons. His name: the Japanese beetle (Popillia japonica).

Unlike the Asian hornet. the tiger mosquito, two insects also appeared in recent years in France, the Japanese scarab represents no danger for humans. It does not sting and does not transmit any disease. But it is considered a major economic and ecological threat. For agriculture, horticulture and green spaces. Even individuals are concerned because it can ravage gardens and vegetable gardens!

This is why he is now among the 20 most dangerous insects identified in Europe. It is even classified among the “priority quarantine organizations” defined by the European Regulation (EU) 2019/1702. This status implies an after asian hornet, new harmful obligation to surveillance and detailed struggle on the website of the Ministry of Agriculture.

Faced with the threat, the measures are multiplied: intensification of trapping, visual controls in sensitive areas, mobilization of agricultural services. But the authorities also rely on the vigilance of the public. In case of doubt, it is recommended to report any observation of the Japanese scarab at the address of SantesveGetaux.draaf-grandest@agiculture.gouv.fr, joining a photo if possible.

Gardeners. landscapers, communities or simple individuals are invited to consult the recognition visuals available on the DRAAF sites or the Ministry of Agriculture, which in the event of doubt, the inhabitants of the Grand Est region can consult the documents put online by the DRAAF, which provide clear photos and instructions.