More intensive control of exotic pests on the southern side of the Alps

Damage caused by the leaf miner Aspilanta oinophylla. (Photo: Agroscope) The number of alien species, so-called neobiota, is steadily increasing in Switzerland. Some of these organisms can cause damage in agriculture. On the south side of the Alps, a region with a high risk of introduction, Agroscope, the canton of Ticino and Agridea have strengthened their collaboration in research on these species. There are more and more neobiota in Europe and Switzerland. The causes of this increase include globalized trade, human mobility and global warming. Whether alien animals, plants or microorganisms, some of these undesirable organisms are already causing damage in agriculture, while others could do so in the future.