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Contact usHome Plants, Bees & Seeds Plant Health Plant Pests & Diseases Diabrotica virgifera virgifera Email to a friend
Further reading
Diabrotica virgifera virgifera
The Western corn rootworm, Diabrotica virgifera virgifera is a serious pest of maize (Zea mays). It originated in North America but was discovered in Europe in1992 near Belgrade (former Yugoslavia). Outbreaks have been confirmed in several EU member states. It was first reported in the UK in 2003 on maize near LondonHeathrow and Gatwick airports. Statutory action is continuing around affected locations, but the pest has not spread from these areas.
EU legislation is in place to detect Diabrotica and to control it when found. This includes annual surveys and the demarcation of areas in the event of findings. A key requirement in such areas is to rotate maize with other crops, which is the most effective means of controlling this pest. Rotation is also required around certain airports (Heathrow, Gatwick, Stansted, Bristol and East Midlands) where the risk of introduction of Diabrotica is high.
| Useful Info | Useful Guides |
|---|---|
| Ongoing survey plan & results | Diabrotica species illustrated information leaflet |
| Pest Risk Analysis | Diabrotica virgifera virgifera illustrated information leaflet |
| Cost Benefit Analysis | Advice for Allotment Holders |
| Regulatory Impact Assessment | Maize in Game Cover Crops |
| Rotation Restrictions Around Certain Airports |