Experience of polyphagous alien pests of protected crops in Great Britain¹

Abstract

It is government policy in Britain to prevent the introduction of alien pests and to eradicate any of economic importance as soon as possible, should they be found in Britain. In recent years a series of polyphagous pests have been introduced into glasshouses in Britain, including Liriomyza trifolii and L. huidobrensis, Frankliniella occidentalis, Opogona sacchari, Bemisia tabaci and Spodoptera littoralis. Of these, only F. occidentalis is no longer subject to eradication and is now established in Britain. The measures taken to eradicate these pests are discussed. Emphasis is given to the unusual technical problems presented by each pest. These problems include the differing pest life histories and the tolerance of pesticides. Crop husbandry and pesticide approval can affect the choice of eradication strategy. Where possible, the eradication strategy is integrated with biological control.