THE Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) has reminded potato growers to be vigilant for the presence of Colorado beetle, a major threat to potato crops, following recent sightings in the UK.
The Colorado beetle has the potential to have a significant economic impact on the potato industry without action being taken. Adult beetles and larvae feed on the foliage of potatoes.
Colorado beetle larvae were confirmed in a potato field in Kent following laboratory diagnosis of samples in 2023. There were outbreaks in the 1930s, 1950s and 1970s but the pest was swiftly eradicated owing to inspections and public vigilance.
The beetles have been known to be imported into the UK as ‘hitchhikers’ on plants, such as leafy vegetables, salad leaves, fresh herbs, grain and frozen vegetables, and APHA is urging people to keep an eye out when handling these items.
Defra’s Chief Plant Health Officer, Professor Nicola Spence, said: “The Colorado beetle poses a significant threat to plants and the wider potato industry. The public have an important role to play in helping us take swift and effective action to protect UK biosecurity. The public are urged to be vigilant and report suspected sightings to the Animal and Plant Health Agency with a photo and location details.”
APHA Interim Chief Executive Dr Jenny Stewart added: “Our surveillance capabilities protect UK borders from a wide range of plant pests and diseases, including the Colorado beetle, but we cannot do this without the help of the public.”
At the RHS Chelsea Flower Show in May, APHA staged an exhibition to raise awareness of the impact this pest can have on UK food security and the potato industry, showcasing how to report suspected findings to APHA in an effort to protect the British potato industry.
Anyone who finds a Colorado beetle is urged to capture it in a secure container and report any suspected sightings to APHA as soon as possible by telephoning 0300 1000 313 or by emailing the planthealth mailbox. All sightings should include a photograph and location details.
For Scotland, contact the Scottish Government’s Horticulture and Marketing Unit: Agricultural crops contact the local RPID officer.
