THE DISTRIBUTION OF THE WESTERN CORN ROOTWORM (DIABROTICA VIRGIFERA VIRGIFERA LeCONTE) IN TERNOPIL REGION

S. S. Pokhyla, H. M. Holinei, M. Z. Prokopiak, M. A. Kryzhanovska

Abstract


Our research assessed the condition of maize (Zea mays) crops in the Ternopil region, specifically examining infestations by insect pests, particularly the western corn rootworm (Diabrotica virgifera virgifera Le Conte). We also analyzed the biological characteristics and distribution of the western corn rootworm across Ukraine and within the Ternopil region.
The study of insect pests was conducted on farmland in Birky and Sosnivka villages (Kremenets district, Ternopil region) and on a household plot in Polivtsi village (Chortkiv district, Ternopil region). We identified three key insect pests on the maize crops: D. virgifera virgifera, Swedish fly (Oscinella frit), and European corn borer (Ostrinia nubilalis).
The western corn rootworm is a significant invasive species that poses a major threat to maize cultivation. It impacts crop yield, product quality, and increases pest control costs. D. virgifera virgifera has spread extensively throughout Ukraine, with its peak presence recorded in 2022. By 2023, its presence in 18 Ukrainian regions highlighted the urgent need for comprehensive phytosanitary monitoring and control measures.
The most affected areas were the Chernivtsi, Zakarpattia, Mykolaiv, and Kirovohrad regions. Conversely, some areas, like the Ivano-Frankivsk region, experienced significant decreases in infestation levels. In 2023, the western corn rootworm was detected for the first time in the Poltava and Chernihiv regions, demonstrating its dynamic spread.
We observed the Swedish fly on maize crops during the 3-4 leaf stage. Damage from this pest, characterized by deformation and yellowing along the central leaf vein, appeared as elongated spots. The European corn borer is another common maize pest; its flight was recorded in early July. However, a drop in temperature and precipitation during this period interrupted egg-laying and the pest's development.
Our analysis also explored the relationship between western corn rootworm spread and average daily temperatures. During the study period, temperature conditions were favorable for the pest’s development. Notably, short-term temperature drops below -10°C had no negative impact on egg overwintering.

Keywords


Zea mays L.; western corn rootworm; distribution; phytosanitary condition; pest infestation

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DOI: https://doi.org/10.25128/2078-2357.25.1-2.5

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