As a result of a resurgence of the flying locust plague that has been reported in recent weeks, Guatemala has decided to declare a State of Phytosanitary Emergency.
There has been a new outbreak of the flying locust plague identified under the scientific name "Shistocerca piceifrons (Walker)" directly affecting the department of Peten, so a State of Emergency is issued, explains one of the recitals of the Ministerial Agreement 18-2021, of the Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock and Food (Maga).
Due to the new outbreak of flying locusts, farmers in the department of Peten report that the pest has destroyed large areas of corn and bean crops.
Days ago, the International Regional Organization for Agricultural Health (OIRSA) warned that a locust swarm entered Guatemala from the border area with Yucatan, Mexico.
After reports of flying locusts entering Guatemala from the border area with the Yucatan, Mexico, Salvadoran authorities have declared themselves on alert because of the threat they could represent to local crops.
The Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock (MAG) is prepared to face the threat of a flying locust (Schistocerca piceifrons piceifrons) that could cause damage or loss to crops in our territory, details an official statement dated January 12, 2021.
Because of the humidity of the soils, a phenomenon that was caused by the heavy rains generated by the passage of the tropical depressions Eta and Iota, local authorities warn that the crops could be affected by diseases and pests.
According to representatives of the Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock and Food (MAGA), crops such as coffee, bananas and vegetables could face the greatest risks.
Since the pest represents a threat and is capable of destroying crops in a very short time, moving large distances in one day, a state of phytosanitary emergency was declared in the country due to a significant increase in the number of flying locusts.
During the period from May to June this year, rainfall in the region is forecast to be below normal, leading to increased crop pests and a shortage of animal feed.
The International Regional Organization for Agricultural Health (OIRSA) reported that because of the lack of rain is predicted a greater presence of pests in crops of corn, beans and sorghum, due to projected low rainfall from May to July 2019, compared to the historical average.
Normal temperature and humidity conditions could increase the incidence and severity of coffee rust, especially in the areas of Honduras, Guatemala, southern Mexico and Nicaragua.
The Climate and Agricultural Health Bulletin, by the International Regional Organization for Agricultural Health, shows the outlook for the climate in the coming months, and details the impact that humidity and rainfall conditions could have on crops and agricultural activity in Central America.
Producers in the southern region reported damage to corn and sugar cane caused by the insect known as the lace bug.
Authorities at the Ministry of Agriculture (Maga) confirmed to Prensalibre.com that about 1,000 hectares of maize in Retalhuleu have been affected by the plague.
Gustavo Rivas, general secretary of the National Association of Basic Grains (Anagrab) reported that "...a workshop has been organized with producers, the Maga and the private sector to find alternative solutions to the problem.'We will assess damaged areas in order to find out about the pathogens that are causing the problem and find solutions."
Overproduction along with the thrips pest, which has affected 35% of production, are putting downward pressure on the price of the seed.
On top of the negative effect of the pest on crops, is the lack of implementation of good practices by smallholders and soil problems arising from, among other factors, deforestation.
"Jorge Mario del Cid, Chairman of the Cardamom Committee at the Guatemalan Exporters Association, said in an article in El Periodico that a quintal can fetch a price in the local market of Q5, 000 when the crop is below 20,000 tonnes, but it may fall to get Q1,500 with the current harvest." According to the same source, the problem affects approximately 350,000 domestic producers."
A mutant strain of the fungus is affecting 40% of trees in this country and is raising concerns due to its spread potential.
This aggressive variety of rust attacks the leaves of plants and reduces their productivity, and it finds better conditions in low-altitude sites, where it is warmer and there is more moisture.
Central America and Mexico produce about a fifth of the world's Arabica coffee, a quality grain preferred by roasters such as Starbucks. The presence of rust is a serious concern for farmers in the mountains or on the slopes of volcanoes, Reuters reported.