Diabrotica virgifera virgifera Position in UK - 2004 update
Following the finding of Western corn rootworm, Diabrotica
virgifera virgifera, in the UK for the first time in 2003, an extensive
national survey was undertaken in 2004. Over 1700 pheromone traps were
placed in maize fields throughout England and Wales, including in and
around the known outbreak areas, to determine the potential distribution
of the pest.
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The pest was confirmed as still present in the current outbreak area. 87 beetles were confirmed on traps this year, compared to 95 beetles in 2003
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Despite extensive trapping, there have been no findings of the pest outside the areas where the pest was confirmed in 2003. Thus, containment measures appear to have been successful in preventing further spread of the pest
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All traps from the national survey proved negative, with no findings of the pest in new areas of the country in 2004
Recommended Measures
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Crop rotation is the most effective way to prevent the establishment of this damaging pest of maize. Maize growers, particularly in the south and east of England, are advised to rotate maize wherever possible. This helps to break the life cycle of the pest. Larval stages hatching in spring from eggs laid in the soil will starve if no maize roots are available to feed on.
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Controls on and in the proximity of the affected farms will continue
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Maize strips maintained for game cover can be a potential reservoir of the pest and pose a risk to maize crops in the surrounding area. Use non-maize seed mixes wherever possible.
Page last modified:
13 Nov 2006
Page published: 25 Nov 2004