Phylloxera attacks Tenerife vineyards: economy and unique varieties under threat
Phylloxera has been detected in Tenerife, threatening the destruction of local vineyards and the economy of winemaking in the Canary Islands.
The Association of Winegrowers and Winemakers of the Canary Islands (Avibo) is sounding the alarm: phylloxera, a pest that can destroy local vineyards, has been discovered in Tenerife. They have urgently developed an action plan to stop the spread of the disease and save the unique winemaking industry. They say that if nothing is done, almost 1,900 jobs in this industry could be lost.
Experts have prepared a report outlining what needs to be done immediately: how to combat the pest, revitalize the vineyards, and restore them. It is also important to communicate this correctly to the public in order not to damage the image of Canary wine.
The authorities of the Canary Islands have confirmed that phylloxera was found on a private plot and abandoned land in Valle de Guerra and La Matanza. Both locations are in the north of the island, where winds and the transportation of grapes during the harvest can quickly spread the pest.
Tenerife is the heart of winemaking in the Canary Islands, with 47% of all vineyards. If they are lost, the island's economy will lose more than 63 million euros annually, and almost 1,900 people will be out of work. It will take about 96 million euros to fully restore the vineyards.
Avibo says that the appearance of phylloxera is a turning point for Canary winemaking. If action is not taken quickly, local grape varieties could be lost forever, the industry's economy could be ruined, and positions in the global market could be lost.
The experience of other countries shows that delay only worsens the situation. Therefore, decisive action and joint efforts are needed now to save winemaking.
Agricultural engineers are also concerned about the situation. They believe that phylloxera entered the island due to poor border control, which is the responsibility of the central government. The Canary Islands have their own pest protection, but it did not work.
Investigations show that infected plants were illegally imported to the island. Although phylloxera does not harm human health and does not affect the quality of wine, it may force winemakers to completely replace their vineyards.
The local Minister of Agriculture has convened an emergency meeting to discuss the situation and decide what to do next.