Altica viridula
Severe damage to oriental hornbeam (Carpinus orientalis) leaves was identified by specialists of LEPL National Forestry Agency in the villages of Kvemo Kartli-specifically, Tetritskaro Municipality (Abrameti, Amlivi, Orbeti, Golteti) and their surrounding areas, as well as in the Mtskheta-Mtianeti region.
Based on field observations, the leaf beetle (Altica viridula) was identified as the causal agent of the damage. Both larvae and adult beetles feed on the leaves, and during severe infestations, they cause skeletonization (removal of soft tissues) and premature leaf drop. Importantly, the pest does not damage branches and shoots; therefore, severe leaf damage does not inherently mean tree mortality, and the hornbeam is capable of recovering its foliage during the same or the subsequent vegetation period.
A similar mass outbreak was also described in Iran (2022), where A. viridula has been recorded as a significant leaf-eating pest of hornbeam, although tree mortality was not confirmed.
Considering the risks and the type of damage, at this stage, the use of chemical control methods in the natural forest ecosystem is not advisable. The Agency continues to monitor the pest population and damage dynamics, as well as study the natural enemies of the pest, since field research recorded an insect (Zicrona caerulea) that participates in the natural regulation of the damaging beetle.
