In recent years, an unwanted visitor has arrived in different regions of Spain. Even if its presence was limited, experts are now warning about its progress and the impact it could generate if measures are not taken in time. This insectwhose appearance can cause repulsion, finds conditions favorable to its proliferation in certain urban and rural habitats. Do you want to know what it is and how to avoid it?
This is the insect that worries experts
He beetle Xylotrechus chinensis It has the appearance of a wasp. It is native to China and other parts of East Asia and has spread to Europe, become a threat especially for mulberry trees. The first report on the Old Continent dates back to 2018.
The life cycle of these insects is short, because They only last between 18 and 23 days in captivity. Adult beetles do not feed after emergence, focusing their efforts on reproduction and population expansion.
Rising temperatures, likely due to climate change, have extended its flight periodextending its activity from late April to mid-October in Mediterranean climates.
What problems do these invasive beetles cause?
The infestation of this beetle causes considerable damage to mulberry trees, particularly in public spaces and avenues, representing a risk for the safety of passers-by due to the possibility of falling branches.
Its spread is rapid. In Catalonia, its spread has been impressive. In 2018, one district and four towns were affected, totaling 44 km2. In December 2023, there are already 65 cities affected and more than 1,134 km2 according to this report published in the scientific journal Nature.
Scientists point out that the infestation is likely to spread further in the future, “especially along the Mediterranean coast, from Spain to Greece.”
What treatments have they used to reduce the beetle infestation?
The report indicates that the only treatment was with abamectin in a Catalan town (Barberá del Vallés) in June 2022. It was carried out on a sample of approximately 24 trees (12 treated and 12 untreated).
This treatment was effective in reducing the infestation of this insect compared to untreated trees. However, the researchers point out that the reduction was not complete.
“Additional treatment should be tried carried out during the first 10 days of October to control this pest. It would also be worth trying just one abamectin treatment. in mid-July because it should be able to kill larvae that hatch before treatment while retaining sufficient residual activity for larvae that hatch after treatment, and thus covering the entire period of activity», conclude the specialists.
