A warning has been issued following recent sightings of a beetle in Kent which poses a “major threat” to potato crops.

Experts at the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) say the Colorado beetle has the potential to have a significant economic impact on the potato industry without action being taken.

Adult beetles and larvae feed on the foliage of potatoes and several other plants, including tomatoes, aubergines and peppers, and can completely strip them of their leaves if they are left uncontrolled.

In 2023, lavae were found confirmed in a farmer’s field in the county following laboratory diagnosis of samples.

The APHA is also reporting “recent sightings” of the insect.

Now, home gardeners, allotmenteers and farmers are being urged to be vigilant.

Professor Nicola Spence, Defra’s (Department for Environment Food and Rural Affairs) chief plant health officer, said: “The Colorado beetle poses a significant threat to plants and the wider potato industry.

“The public has an important role to play in helping us take swift and effective action to protect UK biosecurity.

“The public is urged to be vigilant and report suspected sightings to the Animal and Plant Health Agency with a photo and location details.”

There were outbreaks in the 1930s, 1950s and 1970s, but the pest was swiftly eradicated due to inspections and public vigilance.

The beetles have been known to be imported into the UK as ‘hitchhikers’ on plants, such as leafy vegetables, salad leaves, fresh herbs, grain and frozen vegetables.

Its body is yellow or cream with 10 black stripes, and it has an orange head with irregular black spots.

Colorado beetles are usually between 6 to 11mm in length and 3mm in width.

Its larvae are a pinkish red or orange colour, with black spots along each side and a black head and are up to 15mm in length.

APHA interim chief executive Dr Jenny Stewart added: “Public vigilance was key to eradicating the beetle in the 1970s, and we really need home gardeners, allotmenteers and farmers to step up again, and identify and report suspected sightings to protect potato crops.”