Spain: South African thrips wreak havoc on the pomegranate harvest in the Valencian Community

The quarantine thrips plague Scirtothrips aurantii Faure is causing serious losses in pomegranate production in the Valencian Community. According to estimates by La Unió Llauradora, this invasive insect has caused damage to almost half of the harvest, which represents direct losses of more than 15 million euros. The agricultural organisation, in contact with the affected farmers and after inspecting the fields, has estimated that 50% of the production, some 30,000 tonnes, has already been damaged, with the province of Alicante being the most affected. The damaged production, mainly protected under the Granada de Elche DOP, presents serious quality problems that prevent its commercialisation for fresh consumption. This fruit must be destined for the industry, where it is paid at significantly lower prices (0.13-0.14 €/kg compared to 0.40-0.60 €/kg for first and second quality fruit). Impact of the pest and damage to crops The damage caused by Scirtothrips aurantii in pomegranates ...