DEFRA’S announcement that a threat posed to British potato growers by Colorado Beetle has now been dissolved has come as welcome news to the industry – but vigilance is still being advised.
The pest was detected in July 2023 in Kent, prompting a two-year surveillance, and warnings for growers to be vigilant following a further finding later that year.
The beetle, which is orange-yellow with black stripes, can rapidly strip foliage from potato crops and impact on profits.
Farming Minister Angela Eagle said: “This is great news for British farmers. We will continue to work with partners and stakeholders to maintain UK biosecurity and protect British crops from future threats.”
GB Potatoes welcomed news with its CEO Scott Walker praising grower collaboration and rapid reporting, but warned that any further sightings should be immediately reported.
“Continued vigilance remains essential to ensure this pest does not gain a foothold in the future,” he said.
His warning was echoed by Defra Chief Plant Health Officer Professor Nicola Spence, who said:
“Colorado beetle can pose a significant threat to plants and the wider potato industry, and I’m grateful for the role of farmers, home gardeners and allotment holders in helping us take the action needed to protect our national crops.
“This has been a huge team effort and is good news for the potato industry, but in order to prevent further outbreaks, it is vital the public continue to be vigilant and report suspected sightings to the Animal and Plant Health Agency with a photo and location details.”
Anyone who finds what they suspect to be a Colorado beetle in England and Wales is advised to capture it in a secure container and report to APHA as soon as possible by telephoning 0300 1000 313 or by email . All sightings should include a photograph and location details.
