La Cochenille invited itself to the heart of the districts and homes in Nabeul, causing a real discomfort for the inhabitants. According to Slim Zouari, director of the Regional Union of Agriculture in Nabeul, this invasion of insects is not new.
He claims that the Union had sounded alarm several times, calling on the authorities to take the lead to prevent the arrival of this devastating insect in the region. But in vain.
“Our calls have not been heard, and today the situation is out of control. Even the treatments will no longer be as effective, because it is already too late, ”he regretted.
Cochrenille, in particular the variety that attacks the prickly pear, has spread for about six months. This parasite feeds on the sap of the rackets of the cactus, causing the appearance of yellowish spots which extend gradually, until the fall of the infested racket fall, then the death of the whole trunk. Several regions of the country have already been affected by this scourge, jeopardizing an essential culture with many rural communities.
The appearance of the insect in the urban areas of Nabeul marks a new concern in this silent invasion.
