- Basel Resorts to Employing Threadworms for the Initial Time to Combat Japanese Beetles
To curb the expansion of the Japanese beetle issue, Basel, a city in Switzerland, is attempting a novel approach by utilizing threadworms. This is the first time these threadworms, known as nematodes, are being used publicly in parks and sports facilities. A specialized firm applied a solution containing these nematodes on grassy areas. These microscopic nematodes are designed to infiltrate the soil and eradicate the beetle's larvae.
Simon Leuenberger, head of Basel's department responsible for maintaining green spaces, expressed optimism about this new method saying, "We're hoping this method will be effective." However, it will only be clear in a year if the endeavor proves successful. Soil samples will then be collected for analysis. The Japanese beetle has already been spotted at twelve locales in the vicinity.
These nematode strains have shown effectiveness against Japanese beetle larvae, as well as against those of vine weevils and garden chafer, according to the cantons of Basel-Stadt and Basel-Landschaft. "These threadworms pose no danger to other animals or humans," they assured.
These threadworms feast on over 300 different plant species.
The Japanese beetle (Popillia japonica) is an invasive pest in the EU, causing significant harm to viticulture, horticulture, and agriculture. Roses, raspberries, grapes: these beetles infest orchards, vineyards, forests, green spaces, and gardens, devouring more than 300 plant species.
Following the discovery of Japanese beetles in Basel, the Lörrach district in Germany activated preventative measures. Several instances of this harmful beetle species were found in Baden-Württemberg this year. A single specimen was also discovered in Bavaria.
Distinguishing feature: White hair tufts
The Japanese beetle is barely an inch long, boasting a metallic, shiny green head and brown wings. The presence of five white hair tufts on each side of the abdomen and two white tufts at its end are notable features. Females reportedly favor moist or watered grassy areas to lay their eggs. The larvae born from these eggs feed on grass roots, causing harm to lawns and meadows.
The distribution of the Japanese beetle issue in the vicinity of Basel has led to the application of nematode solution in parks and sports facilities, aiming to eradicate the beetle's larvae in the soil. The use of nematodes in this distribution strategy has been proven effective against Japanese beetle larvae as well as those of vine weevils and garden chafer, posing no danger to other animals or humans.
