The Volgograd Department of the Rosselkhoznadzor reported the discovery of foci of potato moth infection in two districts of the border Rostov region.
Quarantine has been declared, the outbreak is being eliminated, and measures have been taken to prevent the spread of the pest throughout the country. However, there are always chances – for more safety, a survey of potato plantings is carried out using special pheromone traps.
“Monitoring is carried out in farms engaged in the cultivation and storage of potatoes, where 500 pieces of pheromone traps are currently being installed, as well as vehicles and cargo arriving in the region are being inspected,” the ministry said.
Potato moth caterpillars can damage many nightshades, but are especially dangerous for potatoes. Having made its way into the storage, the parasite will devour both balls and tobacco, tomatoes, peppers, and eggplants. This caterpillar will need only a couple of weeks.
By the way, don’t be afraid of butterflies. She does not eat and promptly leaves for the other world. It is the larvae that are the danger.