I programmi di eradicazione di Anoplophora chinensis e A. glabripennis in Italia

Anoplophora chinensis and Anoplophora glabripennis are two longhorn beetles native of the Far East (mainly from China and Japan) and invasive to Europe and North America. They develop in a number of broadleaf plants extremely different in age and size: from potted plants and bonsais to old and monumental plants of forest, urban, fruit and ornamental trees and shrubs. The wood-boring larvae feed in phloem and xylem of infested plants, causing disruption of vascular tissues and structural weakness, and leading to plant death. Both species are considered worldwide as serious pests and they were accidentally introduced in many North American and European countries, including Italy. Severe phytosanitary regulations were disposed to prevent further introductions and insect spread, and eradication protocols were carried out to remove the invading populations. Recent infestations of both species were found in north and central Italy. Chipping or burning infested plants, also including roots in the case of A. chinensis, are set up for the pest eradication. Eradication programs also include a specific survey, phytosanitary restrictions for movements of host-plants from the quarantine areas, and a citizen science program based on citizen’s information and public awareness.