Argentina warns of new species of locusts on the border with Brazil

Surveys carried out by the National Health and Agro-Food Quality Service (Senasa) made it possible to detect, in recent days, outbreaks of “tucuras” or locusts, in the towns of Campo Viera and Itacaruaré, province of Misiones (AR).

The tasks carried out by agents from the Corrientes-Misiones Regional Center of the national body detected the grasshoppers, mainly of the genus Zoniopoda and the species Chromacris speciosa, that is, it is not the South American species (Schistocerca cancellata), a pest for which a regional emergency persists and which was present this year in the province of Corrientes.

To date, these insects have been observed on three farms in the municipality of Campo Viera and on one in Itacaruaré, with no reports of major damage to weeds, being detected mainly on weeds and large trees where feeding has been recorded, reported Senasa.

Senasa asked producers to immediately report the detection or suspected presence of the insect in their fields, by calling toll-free 0800-999-2386, through the “Alerta Senasa” App or by visiting their offices. They can also do this at INTA, the Ministry of Agriculture and Production or INYM.

It was also recommended to consult the zonal technician and carry out treatments only in cases considered necessary by the professional.

Characteristics of the species Zoniopoda tarsata

The species with the highest density corresponds to Zoniopoda tarsata, categorized as an occasional pest of local importance and which was previously recorded in the province of Misiones. Their gregarious behavior makes it possible to observe numerous groups of insects in certain areas, but their ability to move is unmatched by migratory locust clouds.

It is a species normally detected by Senasa in insect monitoring actions and other “tucuras” in Northwest Argentina. The pest is usually associated with spontaneous vegetation, with records of damage to tobacco and alfalfa, therefore, when detecting the pest, it is important to consult professionals in agronomic sciences who will be able to determine whether it is worth implementing control actions to protect crops, from in accordance with current legislation.

Read the full statement available here.