Cyprus and Israel collaborate to save cactus pear crops from destructive insect

Cyprus has launched a biological control initiative in partnership with Israel to combat the Dactylopius opuntiae insect, a pest that has caused extensive damage to the island's cactus pear (prickly pear) plantations. Since its detection in Cyprus in 2016, the insect has decimated approximately 20% to 30% of commercial crops, corresponding to roughly 300 to 450 decares out of the 1,500 total decares cultivated on the island. The pest covers the plants in a white, cotton-like substance, leading to their steady decline and eventual death.

In response to a request from the Cypriot authorities, the Volcani Center in Israel provided expert guidance and a specialized team of 200 Hyperaspis trifurcata beetles. Led by Professor Tzvika Mendel, this mission represents a form of "green diplomacy," with Israel providing the biological agents free of charge. The Department of Agriculture in Cyprus began releasing the predatory beetles in May 2026 to counter the infestation.

Initial field surveys conducted weeks after the release indicate that the beetles are adapting well to the Mediterranean climate and effectively reducing the pest population. This initiative aims to provide a sustainable, long-term ecological solution to preserve both commercial agricultural interests and natural cactus populations across the island, particularly in the Nicosia region.