Colorado beetle successfully eradicated in UK

A major potato pest has been officially eradicated from the UK, the government has confirmed, following two years of investigative and surveillance work in Kent.

The Colorado beetle was first detected in July 2023 through laboratory analysis, with one further finding later that year.

The insect, which can completely defoliate potato plants and damage other crops, including tomatoes, aubergines and peppers, has been associated with significant economic losses if not controlled.

See also: Suffolk beet grower counts huge cost of beet moth

According to Defra, no further beetles have been identified since 2023, allowing authorities to declare eradication status.

Surveillance work included repeated inspections of outbreak sites and selected potato fields in Kent to rule out beetles blown from mainland Europe.

The beetle, which poses no risk to human health, is known for its distinctive orange-yellow body marked with 10 black stripes.

Previous UK detections have typically been linked to imported leafy vegetables, salad crops and herbs.

Officials credited the role of farmers, gardeners and allotment holders alongside government agencies in achieving eradication.

Defra’s chief plant health officer, Nicola Spence, said: “Colorado beetle can pose a significant threat to plants and the wider potato industry, and I’m grateful for the role of farmers, home gardeners and allotment holders in helping us take the action needed to protect our national crops.”

Prof Spence added: “This has been a huge team effort and is good news for the potato industry, but to prevent further outbreaks, it is vital the public continue to be vigilant and report suspected sightings to the Animal and Plant Health Agency [Apha] with a photo and location details.”

Aha chief executive Richard Lewis said: “This is a significant achievement for Apha operational teams, working with Defra, the potato industry, farmers, home gardeners and allotment holders.”

Anyone in England or Wales who suspects they have found a Colorado beetle is urged to capture it securely and report it to Apha on 0300 1000 313 or via planthealth.info@apha.gov.uk, including a photograph and location details.