New Threat to Santa Cruz Trees: The Non-Pollinating Wasp
Santa Cruz de Tenerife's trees, particularly the Indian laurels, are under threat from a non-pollinating wasp. This pest causes abnormal growths and can lead to significant tree damage.
The trees in Santa Cruz de Tenerife, especially the Indian laurels (Ficus microcarpa), are facing a new threat from a non-pollinating wasp known as Josephiella microcarpae. This insect is responsible for creating galls on leaves and sometimes on shoots or stems, leading to abnormal growths. These galls result from the insect’s egg-laying activities, causing significant damage to the trees.
Carlos Tarife, the Public Services Councilor, highlighted during a recent city council meeting that this pest has been identified in various parts of the city, affecting the local tree population. The infestation leads to young shoot deformation, gall formation, and premature leaf drop, ultimately weakening the trees and potentially causing branch or tree death.
The vulnerability of Santa Cruz’s trees is attributed to their existing structural and environmental issues. Over the years, approximately 10% of the Ficus microcarpa trees have shown symptoms such as gradual defoliation and wilting, particularly among older and larger specimens.
To combat the wasp’s effects, the Santa Cruz City Council, in collaboration with the Canarian Institute of Agricultural Research (ICIA), has initiated experimental treatments. These include endotherapy trials in García Sanabria Park and monitoring using products like Gazel and Vertimec. Additional treatments are being tested in other affected areas.
Efforts to improve the condition of the trees will continue along the Rambla de Santa Cruz, following successful interventions near the Anaga Avenue section.
For property investors and buyers in Tenerife, the health of local green spaces is crucial. The ongoing efforts to protect Santa Cruz's trees from the Josephiella microcarpae wasp highlight the city's commitment to maintaining its natural beauty. This is an important consideration for those looking to invest in areas where environmental quality is a priority.
