First Italy and Switzerland, now a new pest could establish itself in Germany: the Japanese beetle. To prevent an agricultural disaster, the federal government is taking action.
Stricter prevention measures against the Japanese beetle
To prevent potential damage from the Japanese beetle, the Federal Ministry of Food and Agriculture (BMEL) has announced it will tighten its preventive measures. Although the pest has not yet been detected in Germany, the threat is particularly high in the southern regions.
“Early detection is crucial in combating plant pests like the Japanese beetle,” said Ophelia Nick, Parliamentary State Secretary at BMEL. Her goal is to prevent an outbreak through proactive measures. “We still have a chance,” she emphasized.
Japanese beetle detected near German border
In July, the Japanese beetle was first discovered in Basel, near the German border. The beetle poses a significant threat to agriculture and forestry, attacking the leaves, flowers, and fruits of more than 300 plant species.
The federal states are responsible for monitoring and combating the beetle. Baden-Württemberg has already introduced stricter regulations for transporting green material and soil from potential infested areas. Additionally, all federal states are conducting regular inspections using special pheromone traps.
Spread and unintentional transport of the Japanese beetle
According to experiences from Italy, the Japanese beetle can naturally spread up to ten kilometers per year within the first few years. Moreover, it could unintentionally be brought into Germany via vehicles or plants. “We must prevent this,” said Bernhard Schäfer from the Julius Kühn Institute (JKI).
The Federal Ministry is calling on the public to help. Suspected infestations should be reported immediately to local plant protection services, and suspicious beetles should be captured and handed over to authorities in a sealed container. Travelers from infested regions such as northern Italy or southern Switzerland are advised to thoroughly check their vehicles and luggage and avoid bringing plants or fruits from these areas.
Identifying the Japanese beetle
The Japanese beetle is only one centimeter in size, with a distinctive green head and brown wings. It is particularly noticeable due to five white hair tufts on each side of its abdomen and two more at the end of the abdomen. Originally from Asia, it is classified as a dangerous pest and can severely damage agricultural lands, green spaces, and gardens.
