In September, the invasive African leafhopper (Jacobiasca lybica) was detected in a vineyard in La Londe-les-Maures, sparking immediate concern among winegrowers and agricultural authorities in the Var region. Known for its destructive effects on grapevines, this pest has raised alarms after confirmed reports of its presence in multiple communes along the Mediterranean coast.
Following the initial discovery, the Var Chamber of Agriculture urged vineyard owners to report any unusual foliage damage. Reports were submitted from La Londe-les-Maures, Bormes-les-Mimosas, Ollioules, and Hyères, covering parcels ranging from small blocks to larger areas of up to four hectares. While the exact total area affected is unclear, the infestation appears widespread. Fortunately, the pest emerged late in the growing season, sparing grape clusters from direct harm and limiting damage to foliage.
The African leafhopper displays no preference for specific grape varieties, affecting at least ten white and red varietals. While its presence has been confirmed in most affected communes, observations in Hyères remain under review, though the damage strongly suggests the same culprit.
To mitigate the risk of further spread, the Var Chamber of Agriculture has developed a comprehensive action plan:
- Monitoring and Trapping: Specialized traps will be deployed in vineyards to monitor the leafhopper’s activity and spread. Data will be shared with experts in Corsica, where the pest has already caused significant damage by preventing grape maturation across the island’s vineyards in just five years.
- Early Detection Initiatives: Starting in the 2025 growing season, winegrowers will be encouraged to conduct regular inspections of their vineyards beginning in July. This early vigilance is critical to identifying and addressing new infestations quickly.
- Education and Outreach: Extensive communication campaigns will equip winegrowers with the knowledge to recognize and manage the pest. Training sessions, informational materials, and real-time updates will form a key part of the strategy to minimize its impact.
The rapid colonization of Corsica’s vineyards by the African leafhopper highlights the urgency of containment efforts in the Var region. In just five years, the pest has rendered Corsican vineyards unable to fully mature their grapes, threatening the island’s viticulture. Authorities in Var are determined to prevent a similar outcome on the mainland.
Through swift detection, regional cooperation, and proactive measures, agricultural advisors aim to confine the outbreak and safeguard the region’s vineyards. While the challenge is significant, early intervention offers hope for mitigating the pest’s impact and protecting one of France’s most vital wine-producing regions.