We're being urged to hunt the Japanese beetle

Japanese beetle (c) Bruce Marlin

The Federal Agriculture Office is launching a new campaign to slow the spread of the invasive Japanese beetle, a pest considered a major threat to agriculture and the environment.

Authorities are urging travellers returning from affected regions to carefully inspect their cars and luggage for the insect before heading home.

The beetle attacks more than 400 plant species and its larvae can destroy lawns and crops, with potential damage estimated in the hundreds of millions of francs each year.

The pest spreads through vehicles, bags and outdoor clothing.

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