Colorado potato found in Hampshire, say Defra and the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA)

Potato crops in Hampshire could be under threat after an imported pest was found in the county.

A single Colorado potato beetle was found in an unnamed spot in the county today by a member of the public. It follows an outbreak of the beetle in Kent earlier this week.

The beetle is a “significant threat” to potato crops, with adults and larvae feeding on the foliage of potato and others in the nightshade family, completely stripping leaves if left uncontrolled.

Confirmation of the find was made by Defra and the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) today (Friday) following lab tests. APHA will be conducting surveys in gardens, potato crops and land around the find to ensure there are no other Colorado beetles present.

UK Chief Plant Health Officer Nicola Spence said: “Following a report by a vigilant member of the public, our experts have identified the presence of single adult Colorado beetle in Hampshire.

“The beetle was swiftly removed by the Plant Health and Seeds Inspectorate and there is no evidence to suggest this finding is connected to the outbreak in Kent.

“Whilst this pest does not pose a threat to human health, we encourage all growers, farmers, processors and the public to remain vigilant and report any sightings.”

The beetle is bright yellow or orange with black stripes and is usually 8.5-11.5mm in length and 3mm in width. Its larvae are a reddish brown, round and globular, and up to 15mm in length.

The beetles are occasionally imported into the UK from continental Europe on plant material such as leafy vegetables, salad leaves, fresh herbs and grain. In the past 70 years, there have been two outbreaks in the UK, in 1976 and 1977. Both were eradicated shortly after detection.

Suspected findings must be reported to the APHA, phone 0300 1000 313 or email planthealth.info@apha.gov.uk