SWEDE MIDGE, Contarinia nasturtii

The Swede midge is a gall midge that is native to Europe and southwestern Asia. It was first discovered in North America in the summer of 2000 in Ontario, Canada. In 2004, it was detected for the first time in the United States in Niagara County, New York.

Swede midge attacks cruciferous vegetable crops such as broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, kale, and radishes. In Europe and Ontario, it has caused severe losses to these crops. Adult midges emerge from overwintering pupae usually between May and June, mate, and lay clusters of eggs on young plants near the growth point. Larvae hatch within days and begin to feed on the plant tissue. The larvae are very small and may go unnoticed. Depending on temperature, the Swede midge may have up to 4 overlapping generations.

All stages of the Swede midge are very small and it's presence may not be easily detected. Symptoms of Swede midge infestation are difficult to diagnose because the damage symptoms look similar to other common problems of cruciferous crops. Some things to look for are swollen and distorted leaf stalks, blind heads, brown scarring in the growing tips, crumpled heartleaves, and multi-headed plants.

For more information visit these sites:

Canadian Food Inspection Agency
Ontario Ministry of Agriculture and Food
National Agricultural Pest Information System (NAPIS)
USDA-APHIS-PPQ

If you suspect Swede midge damage or presence in your cole crops, please notify the Maine Department of Agriculture (207)-287-3891.

Division Info

Programs

Boards and Councils

SWEDE MIDGE, Contarinia nasturtii

For more information visit these sites: