Pests, especially quarantine pests, are becoming a growing agricultural concern. They
cause significant damage to important crops each year, leading to substantial economic
losses. Climate change and human activities, such as tourism and transport, have
allowed these pests to spread to new areas. Two important quarantine pests are the
japanese beetle (Popillia japonica) and the fall armyworm (Spodoptera frugiperda),
which are already widespread globally, and their harmful effects may soon be felt in
Slovenia. These insects are polyphagous, meaning they attack over 300 different plant
species, including all major crops in Slovenia. In addition to harming cultivated and
wild plants, their arrival could negatively impact the local ecosystem and possibly lead
to reduced biodiversity. To effectively manage quarantine pests, it's crucial to detect
them early, before they can reproduce excessively and spread further. By closely
monitoring the presence of japanese beetle and fall armyworm, we can significantly
reduce crop damage and better protect against their harmful effects.
|
