Italy launches eradication measures against invasive beetles in Lazio and Lombardy

Regional authorities in Italy have confirmed the presence of two invasive beetle species. In Lazio, the beetle Aethina tumida – known as the hive beetle – was detected in a beehive in Gaeta. Veterinarians and the regional health and agriculture departments ordered a 20‑kilometre quarantine around the site, prohibiting the movement of honey‑producing bees, unprocessed apicultural products and equipment to prevent spread.

In Lombardy, an adult Asian longhorn beetle (Anoplophora glabripennis) was found in Borgosatollo. The region issued ordinances activating an eradication plan that included an adulticidal treatment on June 15 and the removal of 127 trees, including infested maples and other vulnerable species, within a 100‑metre radius of the outbreak. A compensation scheme will fund re‑planting of an equivalent number of trees. Officials stress that neither beetle poses a risk to human health, but both threaten the beekeeping and forestry sectors.

Monitoring and control actions will continue in both public and private areas to contain the pests.