The western corn rootworm (Diabrotica virgifera virgifera): a new maize pest threatening Europe

The western corn rootworm Diabrotica virgifera virgifera is one of the most dangerous pests in maize in the USA. For many years, US growers have had to control this pest in maize fields by soil treatment or spraying. Ten years ago, this pest was also 'imported' into Europe. It was the job of the plant protection advisers and officials to inform endangered countries about the appearance of this pest, to develop control strategies for Europe and to establish research programmes to prevent further spread. This paper presents the history of this pest in Europe, its biology, the situation in 2001 and corn rootworm management scenarios for the future.