The Primorsky Krai region is intensifying its fight against invasive pests, with Rosselkhoznadzor announcing expanded surveillance for 2025. Inspections will cover 1.5 million hectares, a 30% increase compared to 2024, focusing on high-risk areas such as greenhouses, orchards, and storage facilities.
Targeting High-Risk Pests
Among the primary threats are:
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American white butterfly (Hyphantria cunea) – damages over 200 plant species.
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Potato moth (Phthorimaea operculella) – can cause up to 80% yield loss in untreated fields (FAO, 2023).
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Asian cotton bollworm (Helicoverpa armigera) – responsible for $5 billion in global crop losses annually (CABI, 2024).
To combat these pests, authorities will deploy 2,717 pheromone and sticky traps, including 600 sticky traps and 100 pheromone traps specifically for western flower thrips (Frankliniella occidentalis), a major greenhouse pest.
Laboratory Testing and Storage Inspections
Rosselkhoznadzor will conduct 5,000 lab tests, including:
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Entomological (insect identification)
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Mycological (fungal pathogens)
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Virological (plant viruses)
Additionally, 4.5 hectares of storage facilities will be monitored for khapra beetle (Trogoderma granarium) and four-spotted grain weevil (Callosobruchus maculatus), both notorious for post-harvest losses.
Why This Matters for Farmers and Agronomists
Invasive pests cause up to 40% of global crop losses annually (IPPC, 2023). Early detection is critical—proactive monitoring can reduce economic damage by 60% (World Bank, 2024). Farmers should:
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Inspect crops regularly for signs of infestation.
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Use certified pest-resistant seeds where possible.
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Cooperate with inspectors to prevent outbreaks.
With rising global trade and climate change accelerating pest spread, Primorye’s enhanced surveillance is a necessary step to protect agriculture. Farmers and agronomists must stay informed and adopt integrated pest management (IPM) strategies to minimize risks.
