The Processors and Growers Research Organisation (PGRO) has confirmed the first case of pea bruchid in a UK-grown commercial pea crop.
The pest was detected in a single sample from a farm in Cambridgeshire. Long established across continental Europe and common in northern France, pea bruchid had previously not been able to complete its life cycle in UK crops. This year's warm and dry spring created conditions that allowed its development.
The pea bruchid has a life cycle similar to the bruchid affecting faba beans. Eggs are laid on young pea pods, and larvae mature inside the grains. When adults emerge, small holes are left in harvested peas. This damage reduces crop value, particularly for human consumption markets.
Roger Vickers, PGRO Chief Executive, said: "This is the first confirmed occurrence of pea bruchid in a UK commercial crop, and it is vital that the industry responds swiftly and collectively. If this pest were to become established here, the consequences for pea growers and the supply chain would be extremely costly. Our immediate priority is to understand the extent of the issue and to prevent pea bruchid from establishing a permanent presence in the UK."
Monitoring and reporting
The PGRO is creating an incident log to track the spread. Growers and traders are urged to check crops and produce for signs of damage and to report cases via the free PGRO Crop Monitor App, including photographs and location details. The organisation highlights that bruchid damage can resemble pea moth damage, making clear images essential.
A trade forum will be convened to develop a plan to prevent adult bruchids from resuming their cycle in spring 2026. A coordinated industry response is required to stop egg-laying and avoid permanent establishment.
Seed management and controls
Preventing spread through seed is a priority. The PGRO advises that all pea seed imported into the UK must be free of bruchid. If live insects are found, seed lots must be fumigated, rejected, or destroyed. Any cases of live bruchids in seed must be reported. Where detected in seed for seed production, the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) must be informed, and movement restrictions will apply.
The PGRO is assessing available control measures, noting that pesticide use should remain a last resort within an integrated pest management approach. Advisory support and awareness campaigns are planned in the coming months.
"A healthy crop starts with good-quality, clean seed," added Vickers. "Grower understanding and active participation will be essential in ensuring we prevent pea bruchid from gaining a foothold in the UK."
Source: Farming Online