the cochineal-tortoise threatens the pines of the Var

The turtle mealybug, a three millimeter parasite, could threaten the pine forests of the Côte d’Azur. Indeed, the insect feeds on the sap of pine trees and develops in the form of a white mould. Once infested, the tree turns black and its bark turns red, as if burned. This parasite would be of American origin. It appeared in 2014 in Naples, Italy. Now, this scourge affects the entire Gulf of Saint-Tropez.

An activated crisis unit

In Ramatuelle, a town in the Var, a crisis unit has been activated. Rémi Bossoutrot, environment manager, explained: “If this little beast were to kill our umbrella pine, then our relief will completely change.” Before reaching this point, some inhabitants turn to specialized companies. However, Lucile Arnaud, phytosanitary inspector, assured: “For the moment no product that is approved. It limits the dispersion, but it is not a miracle product.”