On Sunday, March 12, 2025, the Federal Service for Veterinary and Phytosanitary Surveillance (Rosselkhoznadzor) carried out quarantine phytosanitary control of a batch of fresh raspberries from Morocco that was delivered to the Moscow region.
During the inspection, a quarantine pest was detected that poses a threat to Russia - the Western Flower Thrips (Frankliniella occidentalis Pergande).
The results of laboratory tests conducted by experts from the All-Russian Plant Quarantine Center confirmed the presence of live quarantine organisms.
The cargo owner was informed of the need to take measures to destroy the infected products.
In accordance with the phytosanitary norms of the Russian Federation, the infected berries will be destroyed under the supervision of Rosselkhoznadzor.
The Western Flower Thrips poses a serious threat, affecting more than 250 plant species.
The pests feed on the cell sap of plants, leading to the formation of yellow necrotic spots and silvery streaks, followed by the death of plant tissues.
Feeding by insect sap results in growth retardation, leaf and flower drop, as well as fruit deformation, reducing crop yields.
