**Title: Israeli Scientists Introduce Predatory Beetles to Combat Invasive Pest Threatening Cyprus' Prickly Pears**
In a collaborative effort to protect Cyprus' prickly pear trees from a destructive invasive pest, Israeli scientists have released approximately 200 predatory beetles on the island. This initiative, described as a form of "green diplomacy," comes in response to a request from the Cypriot government for assistance in managing the invasive insect species Dactylopius opuntiae, which has been wreaking havoc on the prickly pear crop since its identification in 2016.
The invasive pest has caused significant damage, reportedly affecting up to 30 percent of the island's prickly pear cultivation, which spans around 1,500 acres. The situation has been exacerbated by the insect's ability to cover the pads of prickly pear plants with a waxy coating, ultimately weakening and killing the plants. The pest has spread across various districts in Cyprus, with the exception of Paphos, and has also impacted wild prickly pear populations in areas such as Nicosia.
The mission was spearheaded by Professor Zvika Mendel, an emeritus researcher at the Volcani Agricultural Research Institute, who has previous experience combating the same pest in Israel after it first appeared there in 2013. Working alongside researcher Dr. Sahar Samra, the team collected the Hyperaspis trifurcata beetles, a natural predator of Dactylopius opuntiae. Before their release, the beetles underwent laboratory checks to ensure their viability.
Upon their release at selected locations in Cyprus, Professor Mendel returned five weeks later to assess the impact of the beetles. His observations indicated that the beetles had successfully established themselves and were beginning to reduce the population of the invasive pest.
Despite Cyprus offering to fund the research efforts, the Israeli team declined financial support, emphasizing their commitment to assist for the benefit of the Cypriot people. "I told them immediately we will help you for free," Mendel stated, highlighting the initiative as a prime example of international cooperation in environmental conservation.
Senior agricultural officer Lyssandros Lyssandrides has previously addressed the challenges posed by Dactylopius opuntiae, noting that Cyprus' climate is conducive to the rapid spread of the insect. He explained that unmanaged prickly pear plants, which are not cultivated or cared for, serve as reservoirs for infestation, further complicating efforts to control the pest.
The introduction of the Hyperaspis trifurcata beetle is seen as a promising biological control method. This predatory beetle is one of the few natural enemies that primarily feeds on Dactylopius species, offering a sustainable and environmentally friendly solution to the invasive pest problem.
As the situation continues to evolve, the Cypriot agriculture ministry remains committed to implementing strategies aimed at containing the pest and protecting the island's agricultural resources. The success of this initiative could set a precedent for future collaborations between nations in addressing environmental challenges and preserving biodiversity.