Looming Locust Invasion Threatens East Yucatan’s Crops

The National Service for Agrifood Health, Safety, and Quality (SENASICA) is spearheading a campaign in collaboration with other government bodies to combat the threat of the Central American locust to crops, primarily in the eastern region of Yucatán. This particular locust species, scientifically known as Schistocerca piceifrons, belongs to the Orthoptera order and the Acrididae family. These insects are notorious for their migratory habits and their capacity to decimate large swathes of crops, which could potentially endanger Yucatán's food and economic security.

The most significant breeding ground for these flying locusts is reportedly in the eastern part of the state, specifically spanning about 520,000 hectares across the municipalities of Tizimín, Cenotillo, Panabá, Buctzotz, and Tekal de Venegas.

In response to this threat, SENASICA, alongside other government agencies and international organizations such as the FAO, have initiated actions including consistent exploration and monitoring to identify locust populations within Yucatán. They are also conducting detailed sampling to ascertain the density of the swarms. This data is then used to implement control measures designed to effectively halt the pests' progress.

As recently as December 2023, there was a significant uptick in pest activity in Yucatán, with approximately 40 swarms affecting grasslands and forests in the area. However, these were successfully controlled.