Italian locust

Systematic position. The Italian locust (Calliptamus barbarus) is a member of the order Orthoptera and the family Acrididae. It is recognized as a significant agricultural pest that can exhibit gregarious behavior, potentially leading to widespread damage to forage and cereal crops in various climatic zones.

Damaged crops. This species is a polyphagous pest, meaning it feeds on a diverse range of plants. Key target crops include cereals (wheat, barley, maize), sunflower, sugar beet, pulses, and alfalfa. In severe outbreaks, the Italian locust can cause complete defoliation of these crops, leading to significant economic losses for farmers.

Biology and life cycle. The insect undergoes hemimetabolous development. Females deposit eggs in the soil, forming egg pods that are often found in well-drained, sun-exposed soils. The life cycle consists of the egg stage, five nymphal instars, and the adult stage. The species typically produces one generation per year, with the egg stage serving as the overwintering mechanism.

Nature of damage and harmfulness. Italian locusts consume all aerial parts of the plants, including leaves, stems, and reproductive structures. Damage manifests as ragged leaves, stripped stems, and destroyed flowers or inflorescences. High-density populations are capable of migrating long distances, turning healthy fields into barren land in a matter of days.

Control measures. Integrated pest management (IPM) is crucial. Cultural methods include deep plowing and harrowing of infested fields to destroy egg pods before hatching. Chemical control is implemented when nymphal populations exceed established economic thresholds, using approved insecticides such as pyrethroids or organophosphates to target early instars.

• Monitoring for egg pods in late autumn and spring.
• Managing vegetation on fallow lands and field edges.
• Applying insecticides while nymphs are in early development stages.