- The Japanese beetle ought not to establish itself in Saxony-Anhalt.
The Agriculture and Horticulture Department of the State Agency aims to halt the arrival of the Japanese beetle in Saxony-Anhalt. To identify any potential introduction promptly, they've installed bait traps at rest stops for the first time, as per their announcement, widening their surveillance program.
This pesky insect, known scientifically as Popillia japonica, has been detected close to the German border in Switzerland. At present, there's no confirmed outbreak in Germany.
As per the department, the Japanese beetle feasts on over 300 types of plants in infested areas, such as grapes, fruit trees, and roses. Its larvae can also wreak havoc on meadows and lawns.
Successful preventive measures require the assistance of the public as well, the department emphasizes. If a questionable beetle is spotted, it should be reported to the Department of General Plant Protection, under the Plant Health section.
The Japanese beetle measures approximately 1 centimeter in length, boasts a green-glinting head, and sports brown wing covers. It bears a resemblance to the regular German garden chafer beetle, but it can be distinguished by its five white tufts of hair on each side and two more at the end of its abdomen.
The Agriculture and Horticulture Department is also concerned about the impact of the Japanese beetle on local plant life, as it feeds on over 300 types of plants in horticulture, including grapes, fruit trees, and roses. Emergency measures need to be taken if this pest enters the field of horticulture in Saxony-Anhalt, as it can cause significant damage.
