Further discoveries of the non-European bark beetle, known as the Monterey Pine Engraver (Pseudips mexicanus), have been reported in Ireland. Initially detected in Co. Clare in December 2023, foresters have been alerted to the presence of this invasive species. The Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine (DAFM) issued a notification in December 2023 after the beetles were found in bark beetle traps within conifer plantations in the Cratloe area of Clare.
In a recent technical note circulated to foresters, the DAFM disclosed that additional trap findings of the Monterey Pine Engraver have been recorded within and near the demarcated area spanning Clare and Limerick. Following the initial discovery of the bark beetle in December 2023, a 10km demarcated zone was established around the trap sites in compliance with EU and national plant health regulations.
“Intensive follow-up surveys” were conducted by the DAFM in early 2024, resulting in a solitary finding of the beetle in a deceased pine tree in February of the same year. Subsequent trap discoveries have been made within and in proximity to the 10km demarcated area in Clare and Limerick. The department clarified that these findings do not necessarily indicate a spread of the beetle, but rather stem from a broader survey aimed at delineating the beetle’s presence following the initial detections.
In response to these developments, the DAFM has expanded the demarcated area, using the same protocol as the original demarcation, which involved establishing a 10km radius outward from the latest trap findings. The Monterey Pine Engraver typically targets pine trees in its native habitat in Central America. Ongoing trapping surveys with lures are focused on the current area of concern, with a national trap network set up beyond the demarcated zone.
Despite initial surveys, no broader national occurrences of the beetle have been identified, according to the DAFM. The department reiterated its commitment to adhering to the EU Plant Health Regulation 2016/2031 and implementing a contingency plan to address the situation. Movement restrictions will continue to apply to pine wood with bark originating from the demarcated area to prevent the potential spread of infested material, as outlined by the DAFM.
These measures are essential to prevent the inadvertent transportation of potentially infested wood out of the area, which could facilitate the spread of the beetle if undetected. Foresters were informed that the DAFM is actively developing systems and protocols to manage the felling, transportation, and processing of affected material, with future updates expected to be communicated to them promptly.
