The front line exotic pest profile: Colorado potato beetle

Figure 1. Severe skeletonisation caused by CPB (Credit: Shuttershock)

The exotic Colorado potato beetle (Leptinotarsa decemlineata) (CPB) is globally considered one of the most economically damaging pests to the potato industry. CPB is native to North America and widespread. It has hitchhiked its way to Europe and northern Asia, where it has since spread rapidly and established.

CPB is an exotic pest:

• „  The insect affects plants from the nightshade family

• „  Globally, one of the most economically damaging pests to the potato industry

• „  Hitchhiking pest, most likely to arrive on imported goods

• „  Rapid response is required should an incursion occur

Read more about the risk pathways, what to look out for and what you can do in Issue 13 of PotatoLink magazine.