Default of the phytosanitary regulations to prevent Rhynchophorus ferrugineus dispersion in the European Mediterranean coast

Within less than 3 years, palms, especially Phoenix canariensis, infested by the red palm weevil (Rhynchophorus ferrugineus) have been found in all the European countries of the Mediterranean coast. In many cities, this pest has already seriously damaged a high value palm patrimony and threatens all the palms not yet infested. This disaster could have been perfectly avoided if the Plant Protection Authorities had adopted right phytosanitary regulations. The lack or total ineffectiveness of regulations have not only no succeeded to prevent the introduction of this pest but have facilitated its dispersion.