Lombardy faces worsening Japanese beetle outbreak, farmers warn of uncontrolled spread

The invasive Japanese beetle (Popillia japonica) is rapidly expanding across Lombardy, with the highest concentrations reported in the provinces of Lecco, Como and Monza‑Brianza. Farmers, floriculturists and citizens have sent a surge of alerts describing massive swarms that are heavily damaging crops, ornamental plants, lawns and even public green spaces, sometimes affecting road verges.

While the regional authorities previously stated that the situation was under control, agricultural organisations such as Cia Lombardia say recent reports show the beetle’s spread is accelerating. Luca Colombo, president of Cia Alta Lombardia, highlighted that the beetle feeds on more than 300 plant species and its larvae damage root systems, creating a structural problem for agriculture and horticulture. The groups are urging the Lombardy government to intensify monitoring, increase preventive measures, invest in longer‑term management plans and provide stronger support to farms and nurseries.

The beetle, native to East Asia, has been present in the region for about ten years, and its continued growth is being described as a systemic, not episodic, threat to the agricultural sector.