| Abstract: | Increasing international trade in plants has resulted in repeated import of foreign pests into Belgium; Opogona sacchari and Coccotrypes dactyliperda are well known examples. Recently two new pests have been introduced into Belgium, Frankliniella occidentalis and Liriomyza huidobrensis. The thrips F. occidentalis appeared in the summer of 1987, and was first found in chrysanthemums. At present, this insect can be observed in floriculture, as well as in vegetable growing, where it occurs on a wide range of host plants. F. occidentalis is now considered definitely established in glasshouses in Belgium. At the end of 1989, the leafminer L. huidobrensis was found for the first time in Belgium. The damage was observed on chrysanthemums and lettuce. In 1990, this leafminer also attacked other crops, especially tomatoes and celery. Its distribution is still limited, as is the damage it causes. |
