Ukraine is experiencing an intensification of locust invasions, raising concerns among farmers and ecologists. The situation is particularly challenging in the Zaporizhia, Dnipropetrovsk, Kherson, and Odesa regions, where experts report a significant spread of this dangerous pest.
This is reported by Finway
Control Measures in the Regions
According to specialists, the main species causing problems are the migratory locust (Locusta migratoria) and the Egyptian locust (Anacridium aegyptium). In these regions, measures are actively being implemented to localize and eliminate locust outbreaks.
In the Zaporizhia region, specifically in the Kushuhum community of the Zaporizhia district, a special plant protection regime has been in effect since July 15. The measures cover an area of 21,600 hectares and will continue until the complete eradication of the pest outbreaks.
Situation in Kherson, Odesa, and Dnipropetrovsk Regions
In the Kherson region, a special plant protection regime was introduced on June 23. Here, treatment was carried out on 297 hectares, of which 27 hectares are sunflower crops. According to the results of phytosanitary inspections, locusts were not detected in the treated areas, and the overall population of the pest remains
“within the economic threshold of harmfulness.”
In the Bolhrad district of the Odesa region, locust migration was recorded in July, particularly in fields after the harvest of rapeseed, barley, and wheat. To prevent the spread of the pest, the stubble was treated with approved insecticides; however, a special protection regime was not introduced here, as the locust population threshold has not been exceeded.
In the Dnipropetrovsk region, specialists received reports of locusts being detected and are currently surveying the areas to assess the scale of the problem.
Experts note that the main food sources for locusts are reeds and wild grasses. At this time, industrial crops have not suffered significant losses, but the situation is under constant monitoring by the relevant authorities.