Pine scale insect control in Abruzzo, Italy

Efforts to combat the pine turtle scale insect (Toumeyella parvicornis) are underway in the Abruzzo region of Italy, specifically in Pineto and Montesilvano. These interventions utilize endotherapy treatments, such as the application of Abamectin, to protect stone pine specimens from the parasite which can cause plant death.

In Pineto, early results from treatments initiated in mid-August 2026 show “significant devitalization of young parasite specimens,” though a full evaluation is expected after a 45 to 60-day period. Monitoring has covered hundreds of trees across the municipality, the Torre del Cerrano Marine Protected Area, and Filiani Park. Authorities are also considering the introduction of a natural antagonist to the parasite.

In Montesilvano, municipal administrations have commissioned specialized groups to treat public green zones and squares. However, the management of the infestation has faced criticism from the association Radici in Comune. The group argues that the issue has persisted for five years and claims that previous interventions have been insufficiently timely or extensive compared to official reports dating back to 2021.