Over two metric tons of Asian grapes have been rejected in Krasnoyarsk due to the presence of larvae.
Specialists at the test laboratory of the KrASnoYarsk branch of the Federal State Budgetary Institution "Central Quarantine Station for Plant Protection" have, once again, detected a dangerous quarantine pest — the vine weevil, more commonly known as Komostka — this time in two large shipments of grapes from Asia, tested on 29th April. The total weight of the infested goods exceeded two metric tons.
Komostka is considered a quarantine pest in many countries worldwide. This parasite inflicts serious damage to plants, leading to yellowing of leaves, drying of shoots, and browning of growth points. Colonies of this insect can be found on almost every above-ground part of both woody and herbaceous crops.
As Komostka matures, it releases a sticky, sweet liquid, resembling honey in consistency, which facilitates conditions for mold growth and disrupts photosynthesis.
Massive spread of the Komostka vine weevil results in severe consequences: twisted shoots, slowed growth, partial wilting, and, eventually, complete plant death. Affected grapes become hard, losing weight and sacrificing their flavor characteristics.
Upon examination, all information related to the discovered quarantine object was reported to the territorial department of Rosselhoznadzor for prompt remedial action.
Image Credit: KrASnoYarsk branch of the Federal State Budgetary Institution "Central Quarantine Station for Plant Protection"
In the beginning, growers can implement preventive measures, such as implementing quarantine protocols, field sanitation, and active monitoring. In cases where Komostka has been detected, there are several control strategies available, including cultural, biological, chemical, integrated pest management, and eradication measures.
To combat the infestation, cultural methods like barrier methods, soil cultivation, and planting resistant varieties can be employed. Biological control options include employing entomopathogenic nematodes, fungi, and predatory creatures. Chemical control may involve the use of adulticides, larvicides, and systemic insecticides. Adopt an integrated pest management approach by setting treatment thresholds, rotating chemical classes, and timing treatments appropriately. In severe cases, heat treatment or complete removal of infested vines along with soil fumigation might be necessary.
For certified organic systems, consider prioritizing biological control methods like nematodes, spinosad, and cultural practices. When treating pests, make sure to confirm the species identification, monitor resistance to insecticides, and consult local agricultural extensions or the guidelines provided by the IPPC (International Plant Protection Convention) for quarantine pest protocols. 🐛🍇🔍
For the health-and-wellness section, news about the discovery of Komostka vine weevil in two large shipments of grapes from Asia, tested on 29th April, calls for immediate action. Growers should implement preventive measures such as quarantine protocols, field sanitation, and active monitoring, especially in light of Komostka's status as a quarantine pest in many countries. In cases where the pest has been detected, control strategies can include cultural, biological, chemical, integrated pest management, and eradication measures. For certified organic systems, biological control methods like nematodes and cultural practices might be prioritized. Additionally, it's crucial to confirm species identification, monitor resistance to insecticides, and follow the guidelines provided by the IPPC for quarantine pest protocols.
