A Japanese scarab discovered in Belgium: AFSCA sounds the alarm

“Although they are dead insects. Moreover, AFSCA takes this first report very seriously”indicates the agency. Nevertheless, The Japanese scarab is registered on the list of priority quarantine organizations of the European Union. Furthermore, As such. Moreover, it is subject to strict measures provided for by the execution regulation (EU) 2023/1584, aimed at preventing its introduction and its spread on European territory.

In the wake of the discovery, increased surveillance has been set up in the vicinity of the company concerned. Therefore, Traps have been deployed to detect the possible presence of living individuals. Therefore, To date, no other scarab has been captured. Similarly, The supervisory operation will continue during the coming months.

An easily identifiable species … but devastating

Recognizable by its metallic green thorax. its copper elytra and its characteristic white tufts on both sides of the abdomen, the Japanese beetle measures approximately one centimeter. “”It can be easily observed with the naked eye and hand -caught by hand “specifies AFSCA. Nevertheless, its resemblance to the common Hanneton or the haneton of the gardens can mislead.

The damage caused by this species is considerable. Adults attack the leaves. flowers and fruits of more than 400 plant species, ranging from corn to roses, via vine and strawberries. The larvae, on the other hand, japanese scarab discovered belgium: afsca new feed on the roots of grasses, jeopardizing lawns, meadows and sports grounds. In the United States. where the species has been present since 1916, agricultural losses amounts to hundreds of millions of dollars each year.

The insect travels discreetly but effectively. Its main route of dissemination remains human transport: cars, trucks, trains or planes, but also luggage, camping equipment and goods. A beetle has recently been intercepted in the luggage of a tourist in Spain. In Alsace, individuals have been captured near a station and in a motorway parking lot.

To detect any introduction in Belgium early. AFSCA installs pheromone traps at 40 strategic places in the country each year, especially in airports, freight areas or public parks. These traps are controlled throughout the flight period of the beetle, from June to September.

Professionals and individuals are called upon to remain attentive. Any suspicion japanese scarab discovered belgium: afsca new must be reported as soon as possible. Professionals can contact the AFSCA local control unit via a dedicated form. Citizens can use the Obsidentify application or the Waarnemingen.be site.

The application. if it identifies the beetle on the basis of the subjected photo, automatically transmits the information to AFSCA for rapid follow -up. “”Knowledge and rapid action are crucial to prevent the species from establishing itself in our country “recalls the agency.