Palm trees in the historical Manuel Bívar garden, in the centre of Faro, have been affected by an infestation of the red palm weevil (Rhynchophorus ferrugineus).
The weevil is thought to have entered Portugal on imported palms and threatens palm trees in the region, most specifically the Canary Island date palm tree, Phoenix dactylifera.
Castelão Rodrigues, regional director of agriculture and fishing, said: “Owners of infected trees have been notified to have them destroyed.” He added that the councils are responsible for maintaining public gardens where these palm trees are located.
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