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The Panel on Plant Health performed a pest categorisation of Stagonosporopsis andigena , the causal agent of black blight of potato, for the EU. The pest is a well-defined fungal species and reliable methods exist for its detection and identification. S. andigena is present in Bolivia and Peru. The pest is not known to occur in the EU and is listed in Annex IAI of Directive 2000/29/EC as Phoma andina , meaning its introduction into the EU is prohibited. The major cultivated host is Solanum tuberosum (potato); other tuber-forming Solanum species and wild solanaceous plants are also affected. All hosts and pathways of entry of the pest into the EU are currently regulated. Host availability and climate matching suggest that S. andigena could establish in parts of the EU and further spread mainly by human-assisted means. The pest affects leaves, stems and petioles of potato plants causing lesions and premature leaf drop but not the underground parts, including tubers. The disease causes yield reductions up to 80%, depending on the susceptibility of potato cultivars. Early application of fungicide sprays and cultivation of resistant potato cultivars are the most effective measures for disease management. The pest introduction in the EU would potentially cause impacts to potato production. The main uncertainties concern the host range, the maximum period the pest survives on host debris in soil, the maximum distance over which conidia of the pest could be dispersed by wind-blown rain, and the magnitude of potential impacts to the EU. S. andigena meets all the criteria assessed by EFSA for consideration as potential Union quarantine pest. The criteria for considering S. andigena as a potential Union regulated non-quarantine pest are not met, since the pest is not known to occur in the EU., (© 2018 European Food Safety Authority. EFSA Journal published by John Wiley and Sons Ltd on behalf of European Food Safety Authority.)

The Panel on Plant Health performed a pest categorisation of the fungus Thecaphora solani , the causal agent of smut of potato, for the EU. The identity of the pest is well established and reliable methods exist for its detection and identification. T. solani is present in Bolivia, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, Mexico, Panama, Peru and Venezuela. The pathogen is not known to occur in the EU and is listed in Annex IAI of Directive 2000/29/EC, meaning its introduction into the EU is prohibited. The major host is Solanum tuberosum (potato), but various other tuber-forming Solanum species are also affected. The pest has also been reported on Solanum lycopersicum (tomato), and wild solanaceous plants are also affected. All the major hosts and pathways of entry are currently regulated. Host availability and climate matching suggest that T. solani could establish in parts of the EU and further spread by human-assisted means. The disease induces gall formation on potato tubers, stolons and underground stem parts, reducing yield and making tubers unmarketable. The pest introduction in the EU would potentially cause impacts to potato production. In the infested areas, the only available strategy to control the disease and prevent it from spreading is the application of quarantine and sanitation measures and the cultivation of resistant varieties. The main uncertainties concern the host range, the biology and epidemiology of the pest, and the potential of the pest to enter the EU through three unregulated minor pathways. T. solani meets all the criteria assessed by EFSA for consideration as potential Union quarantine pest. The criteria for considering T. solani as a potential Union regulated non-quarantine pest are not met, since the pest is not known to occur in the EU., (© 2018 European Food Safety Authority. EFSA Journal published by John Wiley and Sons Ltd on behalf of European Food Safety Authority.)

EFSA was asked for a partial risk assessment of Spodoptera frugiperda for the territory of the EU focussing on the main pathways for entry, factors affecting establishment, risk reduction options and pest management. As a polyphagous pest, five commodity pathways were examined in detail. Aggregating across these and other pathways, we estimate that tens of thousands to over a million individual larvae could enter the EU annually on host commodities. Instigating risk reduction options on sweetcorn, a principal host, reduces entry on that pathway 100-fold. However, sweetcorn imports are a small proportion of all S. frugiperda host imports, several of which are already regulated and further regulation is estimated to reduce the median number entering over all pathways by approximately 10%. Low temperatures limit the area for establishment but small areas of Spain, Italy and Greece can provide climatic conditions suitable for establishment. If infested imported commodities are distributed across the EU in proportion to consumer population, a few hundreds to a few thousands of individuals would reach NUTS 2 regions within which suitable conditions for establishment exist. Although S. frugiperda is a known migrant, entry directly into the EU from extant populations in sub-Saharan Africa is judged not feasible. However, if S. frugiperda were to establish in North Africa, in the range of thousands to over two million adults could seasonally migrate into the southern EU. Entry into suitable NUTS2 areas via migration will be greater than via commercial trade but is contingent on the establishment of S. frugiperda in North Africa. The likelihood of entry of the pest via natural dispersal could only be mitigated via control of the pest in Africa. If S. frugiperda were to arrive and become a pest of maize in the EU, Integrated Pest Management (IPM) or broad spectrum insecticides currently used against existing pests could be applied., (© 2018 European Food Safety Authority. EFSA Journal published by John Wiley and Sons Ltd on behalf of European Food Safety Authority.)

This Guidance describes a two-phase approach for a fit-for-purpose method for the assessment of plant pest risk in the territory of the EU. Phase one consists of pest categorisation to determine whether the pest has the characteristics of a quarantine pest or those of a regulated non-quarantine pest for the area of the EU. Phase two consists of pest risk assessment, which may be requested by the risk managers following the pest categorisation results. This Guidance provides a template for pest categorisation and describes in detail the use of modelling and expert knowledge elicitation to conduct a pest risk assessment. The Guidance provides support and a framework for assessors to provide quantitative estimates, together with associated uncertainties, regarding the entry, establishment, spread and impact of plant pests in the EU. The Guidance allows the effectiveness of risk reducing options (RROs) to be quantitatively assessed as an integral part of the assessment framework. A list of RROs is provided. A two-tiered approach is proposed for the use of expert knowledge elicitation and modelling. Depending on data and resources available and the needs of risk managers, pest entry, establishment, spread and impact steps may be assessed directly, using weight of evidence and quantitative expert judgement (first tier), or they may be elaborated in substeps using quantitative models (second tier). An example of an application of the first tier approach is provided. Guidance is provided on how to derive models of appropriate complexity to conduct a second tier assessment. Each assessment is operationalised using Monte Carlo simulations that can compare scenarios for relevant factors, e.g. with or without RROs. This document provides guidance on how to compare scenarios to draw conclusions on the magnitude of pest risks and the effectiveness of RROs and on how to communicate assessment results., (© 2018 European Food Safety Authority. EFSA Journal published by John Wiley and Sons Ltd on behalf of European Food Safety Authority.)

Following a request from the European Commission, the EFSA Plant Health Panel performed a pest categorisation of Lopholeucaspis japonica (Hemiptera: Diaspididae), an armoured scale which preferentially feeds on smooth barked woody trees and shrubs. The pest occurs in Asia, North America and non-EU Europe (Caucasus region and Ukraine). The pest is regulated in Council Directive 2000/29/EC as Leucaspis japonica , a junior synonym. Its introduction into the EU is banned on plants of Citrus , Fortunella , Poncirus and their hybrids, other than fruit and seeds. Additional host plants comprise 60 species in 35 botanical families, including deciduous fruit trees, ornamental and forest plants. L. japonica could enter the EU via host plants for planting (excluding seeds) and cut branches. It has been intercepted on plants for planting from China, including artificially dwarfed plants. Spread is most likely via plants for planting, rather than via natural spread as most diaspidid life stages are sessile. Impacts could occur in citrus, other fruit crops, ornamentals and forest trees. Sourcing plants from pest-free areas, pest-free places of production or pest-free production sites would decrease the likelihood of introduction. Because suitable hosts occur across the EU in climatic areas matching those where the pest is known to occur, biotic and abiotic conditions are conducive to establishment. The main uncertainty concerns its current distribution in the EU. L. japonica was found in Greece in 1983, but there have been no other reports since then. L japonica satisfies the criteria assessed by EFSA that enable it to be considered a potential quarantine pest. L. japonica does not satisfy the criteria assessed by EFSA for it to be considered a potential regulated non-quarantine pest (RNQP)., (© 2018 European Food Safety Authority. EFSA Journal published by John Wiley and Sons Ltd on behalf of European Food Safety Authority.)

The Panel on Plant Health performed a pest categorisation of the fungus Synchytrium endobioticum , the causal agent of potato wart disease, for the European Union (EU). The identity of the pest is well established and reliable methods exist for its detection and identification. S. endobioticum is present in most continents. The pest is listed in Annex IAII of Directive 2000/29/EC and is present with a restricted and fragmentary distribution in the EU. The major host is Solanum tuberosum (potato), but in Mexico, the pest also affects wild Solanum spp. S. endobioticum could potentially enter the EU through multiple pathways associated with soil as substrate for non-host plants, contaminant or commodity. The presence of the pest in 16 EU Member States characterised by different climatic conditions suggests that it could establish in the rest of the EU. The disease induces the formation of warts on potato tubers, stolons and stem bases reducing plant growth and yield and making tubers unmarketable. Additional losses may occur during storage. The only available strategy to control the disease and prevent it from spreading is the application of strict phytosanitary measures and the cultivation of potato varieties resistant to the pathotype(s) present in the infested field(s). Specific phytosanitary measures exist (Council Directive 69/464/EEC) for the control of potato wart disease in the EU. The main uncertainties refer to the distribution and host range of the pest, and the importance of some pathways of entry. S. endobioticum meets all the criteria assessed by EFSA for consideration as potential Union quarantine pest. The criteria for considering S. endobioticum as a potential Union regulated non-quarantine pest are not met since, in addition to potato seed tubers, soil (as commodity, substrate or contaminant) and ware potato tubers are major means of spread., (© 2018 European Food Safety Authority. EFSA Journal published by John Wiley and Sons Ltd on behalf of European Food Safety Authority.)

Following a request from the European Commission, the EFSA Plant Health Panel updated its pest categorisation of Xylella fastidiosa , previously delivered as part of the pest risk assessment published in 2015. X. fastidiosa is a Gram-negative bacterium, responsible for various plant diseases, including Pierce's disease, phony peach disease, citrus variegated chlorosis, olive quick decline syndrome, almond leaf scorch and various other leaf scorch diseases. The pathogen is endemic in the Americas and is present in Iran. In the EU, it is reported in southern Apulia in Italy, on the island of Corsica and in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region in France, as well as in the Autonomous region of Madrid, the province of Alicante and the Balearic Islands in Spain. The reported status is 'transient, under eradication', except for the Balearic Islands, Corsica and southern of Apulia, where the status is 'present with a restricted distribution, under containment'. The pathogen is regulated under Council Directive 2000/29/EC and through emergency measures under http://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=CELEX:32015D0789 (as amended http://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=CELEX:32017D2352). The pest could enter the EU via host plants for planting and via infectious insect vectors. The host range includes hundreds of host species listed in the EFSA host plant database. In the EU, host plants are widely distributed and climatic conditions are favourable for its establishment. X. fastidiosa can spread by movement of host plants for planting and infectious insect vectors. X. fastidiosa is known to cause severe direct damage to major crops including almonds, citrus, grapevines, olives, stone fruits and also forest trees, landscape and ornamental trees, with high impacts. The criteria assessed by the Panel for consideration as a potential Union quarantine pest are met (the pathogen is present in the EU, but it has a restricted distribution and is under official control). X. fastidiosa is not considered as a regulated non-quarantine pest (RNQP) as the pathogen may spread also via insect vector transmission., (© 2018 European Food Safety Authority. EFSA Journal published by John Wiley and Sons Ltd on behalf of European Food Safety Authority.)

Following a request from the European Commission, the EFSA Plant Health Panel performed a pest categorisation of Melampsora medusae , a well-defined and distinguishable fungal species of the family Melampsoraceae. The pathogen is regulated in Annex IAI of Council Directive 2000/29/EC as a harmful organism whose introduction into the EU is banned. M. medusae is a heteroecious rust fungus with Populus spp. as primary telial hosts and various conifers ( Larix , Pinus , Pseudotsuga , Abies , Picea and Tsuga spp.) as secondary aecial hosts. M. medusae is native to North America and has spread to South America, Africa, Asia, Oceania, as well as the EU, where M. medusae f. sp. deltoidae has been reported with a restricted distribution and low impacts from Belgium, south-west France and southern Portugal. The pest could spread to other EU countries, via dissemination of spores, movement of host plants for planting and cut branches. Climate is assumed not to be a limiting factor for the establishment of the pathogen in the EU. M. medusae is the most widespread and important Melampsora rust in North America. In western Canada, extensive damage has been reported to conifers and Populus spp. in nurseries and plantations as well as in woodlands. M. medusae is damaging in both Australia and New Zealand. The pest could have economic and environmental impacts in the EU if aggressive isolates of M. medusae were introduced into the EU. Import prohibition of host plants for planting is an available measure to reduce the risk of further introductions. Some resistant Populus cultivars are available. Moreover, increasing the genetic diversity of poplar plantations can prevent disease impacts. The main uncertainty concerns the factors explaining the low pathogenicity of the populations of M. medusae present in the EU. The criteria assessed by the Panel for consideration as a potential quarantine pest are met (the pest is present, but with a restricted distribution, and is officially under control). Given that plants for planting are not the main pathway of spread, not all criteria for consideration as a regulated non-quarantine pest are met., (© 2018 European Food Safety Authority. EFSA Journal published by John Wiley and Sons Ltd on behalf of European Food Safety Authority.)

The Panel on Plant Health performed a pest categorisation of Xiphinema americanum sensu lato (Nematoda: Longidoridae) for the EU. Sixty-one species in this group are recognised. They are polyphagous pests found in soil associated with a number of plant species. As a migratory ectoparasitic species, it punctures cells of plant roots. Nematodes were classified in four categories based on their distribution and ability to transmit viruses. Category I contains the seven virus vector species present outside the EU: X. americanum sensu stricto , X. bricolense, X. californicum, X. inaequale, X. intermedium, X. rivesi (non-EU populations) and X. tarjanense . Category II contains the 28 species not present in the EU and not known to transmit any virus. Twenty-six species are present in the EU and are not known to be virus vectors (category III). Category IV contains the species present in the EU, which is a virus vector (EU populations of X. rivesi ). All nematodes known to be virus vectors occurring outside the EU (category I) satisfy all the criteria that are within the remit of EFSA to assess to be regarded as Union quarantine pests. This is mainly due to their association with non-EU virus isolates. Categories II and III contain species that are not reported to transmit viruses or cause economic damage to crop plants. Although uncertainty concerning their ability to transmit viruses exists, those species do not satisfy all the criteria to be regarded as Union quarantine pests. Category IV contains the EU populations of X. rivesi . The species is a virus vector but current EU populations of X. rivesi have not been reported to be associated with any of the EU viruses or their non-EU isolates under field conditions. Xiphinema rivesi (EU populations) is widespread in some Member States and does not satisfy all the criteria to be regarded as a Union quarantine. None of the species can be regarded as a regulated non-quarantine pest., (© 2018 European Food Safety Authority. EFSA Journal published by John Wiley and Sons Ltd on behalf of European Food Safety Authority.)

Following a request from the European Commission, the EFSA Plant Health Panel performed a pest categorisation of Pantoea stewartii subsp. stewartii (hereafter P. s . subsp . stewartii ). P. s . subsp . stewartii is a Gram-negative bacterium that causes Stewart's vascular wilt and leaf blight of sweet corn and maize, a disease responsible for serious crop losses throughout the world. The bacterium is endemic to the USA and is now present in Africa, North, Central and South America, Asia and Ukraine. In the EU, it is reported from Italy with a restricted distribution and under eradication. The bacterium is regulated according to Council Directive 2000/29/EC (Annex IIAI) as a harmful organism whose introduction and spread in the EU is banned on seeds of Zea mays . Other reported potential host plants include various species of the family Poaceae, including weeds, rice ( Oryza sativa ), oat ( Avena sativa ) and common wheat ( Triticum aestivum ), as well as jackfruit ( Artocarpus heterophyllus ), the ornamental Dracaena sanderiana and the palm Bactris gasipaes , but there is uncertainty about whether these are hosts of P. s . subsp. stewartii or of the other subspecies. The pest could enter the EU via host plants for planting (including seed) and via insect vectors from neighbouring countries. Host plants are widely distributed and climatic conditions are conducive in the EU. P. s . subsp. stewartii could spread by movement of host plants for planting (including seeds) and insect vectors. Impacts could occur on maize and rice. Methods to certify pest freedom of maize seeds are available. The main knowledge gaps concern the availability of vectors in the EU, the level of susceptibility of the maize cultivars grown in the EU, the virulence of strains in recent outbreaks, and the host range of the bacterium. The criteria assessed by the Panel for consideration as a potential quarantine pest are met., (© 2018 European Food Safety Authority. EFSA Journal published by John Wiley and Sons Ltd on behalf of European Food Safety Authority.)

Following a request from the European Commission, the EFSA Panel on Plant Health performed a pest categorisation of Chrysomyxa arctostaphyli, a well-defined and distinguishable fungal species of the family Coleosporiaceae. The pathogen is regulated in Council Directive 2000/29/EC (Annex IAI) as a harmful organism whose introduction into the EU is banned. C. arctostaphyli is native to North America and is the causal agent of spruce broom rust. C. arctostaphyli is a heteroecious rust with a 2-year life cycle alternating between the aecial host Picea spp. and the telial host Arctostaphylos spp. The main reported aecial host is P. engelmannii , but also P. abies , P. pungens , P. sitchensis, P. glauca, P. mariana and P. rubens (as well as Picea as a genus) are reported as hosts. The fungus is not known to occur in the EU but could enter via host plants for planting and cut branches. It could establish in the EU, as hosts are present and climatic conditions are favourable. The extent of overlap between the ranges of the telial and aecial hosts is greater in the EU than in North America. The pathogen would be able to spread following establishment by dissemination of spores and human movement of infected host plants. Should the pathogen be introduced in the EU, impacts can be expected in spruce woodland, plantations and on ornamental spruce trees, leading to reduced tree growth and associated ecosystem service provision. The main uncertainty concerns the level of susceptibility of P. abies and P. sitchensis under European conditions. The criteria assessed by the Panel for consideration as a potential quarantine pest are met. As the pest is not present in the EU, not all criteria for consideration as a regulated non-quarantine pest are met., (© 2018 European Food Safety Authority. EFSA Journal published by John Wiley and Sons Ltd on behalf of European Food Safety Authority.)

The Panel on Plant Health performed a pest categorisation of Grapholita packardi Zeller, (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae), for the EU. G. packardi is a well-defined and distinguishable species. It is widely distributed in the USA and has a restricted distribution in Canada and Mexico. It is recognised as a pest of blueberry and cherry, and has occasionally been reported in apple, pear and plum. It is cited on quince and wild rosaceous plants such as Crataegus . Larvae feed on blueberry and cherry fruits internally and overwinter in pruned twigs. External evidence of infestation of cherries by young larvae is occasionally not detectable. In apple, fruit damage is less common; rather, the pest bores into terminal shoots of nursery stock and young orchard trees. Feeding damage spoils fruit quality and marketability and reduces crop yield. G. packardi is not known to occur in the EU and is listed in Annex IIAI of Council Directive 2000/29/EC under the synonym Enarmonia packardi . Host plants for planting and infested fruit could potentially provide a pathway into the EU. Considering the climatic similarities between North America and Europe, and that wild and commercial hosts occur widely within the EU, G. packardi has the potential to establish within the EU. There would be one to three generations per year, as in North America. Based on literature, blueberries and cherries are likely to be impacted more than apples and pears. Phytosanitary measures are available to reduce the likelihood of introduction of G. packardi . All criteria assessed by EFSA for consideration as a potential Union quarantine pest are met. As G. packardi is not known to occur in the EU, this criterion assessed by EFSA to consider it as a Union regulated non-quarantine pest is not met., (© 2018 European Food Safety Authority. EFSA Journal published by John Wiley and Sons Ltd on behalf of European Food Safety Authority.)

The Panel on Plant Health performed a pest categorisation of the Siberian moth, Dendrolimus sibiricus Tschetverikov (Lepidoptera: Lasiocampidae). D. sibiricus is a well-defined and distinguishable species, native to Asian Russia and northern regions of Kazakhstan, Mongolia, China and North Korea, and recognised as a severe pest of Pinaceae conifers, mainly larch ( Larix spp.), fir ( Abies spp.), spruce ( Picea spp.), five-needle pines ( Pinus spp.). It has also a potential to develop on non-native Pinaceae: Cedrus, Pseudotsuga, Tsuga . It defoliates healthy trees and kills thousands of hectares of forests. It is absent from the EU and is listed as a quarantine pest in Annex IAI of Directive 2000/29/EC. Plants for planting, branches of conifers and non-squared wood from its distribution range are considered as pathways for the pest, which can also disperse by flight over tens of kilometres. The females produce sex pheromones. Adults do not feed and can survive for about 2 weeks. One female lays up to 400 eggs, attaching them to needles. One generation usually develops in 2-3 years, with larvae passing winter diapause and some undergoing facultative summer diapause. Exceptionally, 1-year generations may occur if the number of degree-days above 10°C is higher than 2,200. Larvae feed on needles through 5-6 instars and pupate in a cocoon on tree branches. Mature larvae have urticating setae on thoracic segments that protect them from enemies and may cause allergic reactions in humans and animals. The contradictory studies regarding the climatic requirements of D. sibiricus make the issue of its establishment in most of the EU territory uncertain, although its host trees are widely present. All criteria for considering D. sibiricus as a potential quarantine pest are met. The species is presently absent from the EU, and thus, the criteria for consideration as a potential regulated non-quarantine pest are not met., (© 2018 European Food Safety Authority. EFSA Journal published by John Wiley and Sons Ltd on behalf of European Food Safety Authority.)

The Panel on Plant Health performed a pest categorisation of the non-EU Pissodes spp. (Coleoptera: Curculionidae). They constitute a well-defined taxon, with non-EU species distributed in the USA, Canada, Mexico, Guatemala, El Salvador, China, Japan, Korea, Russia and South Africa, some of which are recognised as severe pests of conifers, mainly Pinus spp. and Picea spp., or vector pathogens. The immature stages either live in the phloem and cambium of healthy, weakened or dead trees, or in the terminal shoots of living trees. They are listed as quarantine pests in Annex IAI of Directive 2000/29/EC. Plants for planting, branches of conifers and non-squared wood are considered as pathways. The pest can also disperse by hitchhiking, and fly over kilometres. The adults are long-lived (up to 4 years). They feed by puncturing the bark of stems or shoots. Females lay eggs in chewed-out cavities in the bark. The life cycle varies with species and local climatic conditions. At the end of the larval stage, the larva excavates a pupal cell between the sapwood and the bark, in the sapwood or in terminal shoots. Pissodes spp. overwinter as adults in the litter or as larvae or teneral adults in the galleries or pupal cells. The current geographic range of the non-European Pissodes spp. suggests that many of them may establish in the EU territory, where their hosts are widely present. We list some species which, if introduced to the EU, would most probably have an economic impact on plantations or may interfere with forest ecosystem processes although they are mainly abundant and damaging in intensively managed monocultures. All criteria for considering those non-EU Pissodes spp. as potential quarantine pests are met. The criteria for considering them as non-regulated quarantine pests are not met because they are absent from the EU territory., (© 2018 European Food Safety Authority. EFSA Journal published by John Wiley and Sons Ltd on behalf of European Food Safety Authority.)

Following a request from the European Commission, the EFSA Panel on Plant Health performed a pest categorisation of Coniferiporia sulphurascens and Coniferiporia weirii , two well-defined and distinguishable fungal species of the family Hymenochaetaceae. The pathogens are regulated in Council Directive 2000/29/EC (Annex IAI, under the previous name Inonotus weirii for both species) as a harmful organism whose introduction into the EU is banned. The two pathogens are native to North America, where C. sulphurascens causes laminated root rot primarily in Douglas fir ( Pseudotsuga menziesii ) and grand fir ( Abies grandis ), while C. weirii causes cedar laminated root and butt rot mainly in cedars ( Thuja plicata and Cupressus nootkatensis ). C. weirii has been reported from Japan and China, and C. sulphurascens from China, Russia and Turkey. Neither species has been reported from the EU. C. sulphurascens may infect all conifers, while C. weirii is reported to mainly cause disease in tree species of Thuja spp. and Cupressus spp. The two pathogens could enter the EU mainly via wood with bark, isolated bark and plants for planting (including artificially dwarfed plants) of Pinaceae and Cupressaceae. Both fungi could establish in the EU, as hosts are present and climatic conditions are favourable. The two pathogens would be able to spread following establishment by the pathways mentioned for entry and also by dissemination of basidiospores and root contact with infected root/wood. Should the pathogen be introduced in the EU, impacts can be expected on coniferous woodlands, plantations and ornamental trees, thus leading to reduced tree growth and ecosystem service provision. The key uncertainties concern (i) the distribution of the two pathogens in Asia, (ii) the level of susceptibility of conifers native to Europe and (iii) the role of plants for planting as a pathway of entry and spread. For both pathogens, the criteria assessed by the Panel for consideration as a potential quarantine pest are met. As the two pests are not present in the EU, not all the criteria for consideration as regulated non-quarantine pests are met., (© 2018 European Food Safety Authority. EFSA Journal published by John Wiley and Sons Ltd on behalf of European Food Safety Authority.)

The Panel on Plant Health performed a pest categorisation of nematodes belonging to the genus Hirschmanniella (Nematoda: Pratylenchidae). Twenty-nine species in this genus have been considered of which five species are present in the EU ( Hirschmanniella behningi , Hirschmanniella gracilis , Hirschmanniella halophila , Hirschmanniella loofi and Hirschmanniella zostericola ). The whole genus except H. gracilis is regulated by Council Directive 2000/29/EC (Annex IAI). Hirschmanniella species are root endoparasites uniquely adapted to aquatic environments. Most species are reported from tropical regions. Monocotyledons including aquatic plants are main hosts and some Hirschmanniella species are important pests of rice. Plants for planting are potential pathways for entry. Hirschmanniella species are frequently intercepted on imported aquarium plants. Measures are available to avoid entry. Environmental conditions in greenhouses and potentially in rice production areas of the EU are suitable for establishment. The nematode may be spread with irrigation, tools or plants for planting. Hirschmanniella species were categorised into four groups. The first group includes species reported as pests of crop plants; those satisfy all the criteria that are within the remit of EFSA to assess to be regarded as Union quarantine pests. The second group includes species that are not reported to cause economic damage to crop plants; those species do not satisfy all the criteria to be regarded as Union quarantine pests. Uncertainty exists whether species in this group can cause damage once introduced into the EU. The third group includes species that are known to be present in the EU and do not cause damage; they do not satisfy the criteria to be regarded as Union quarantine pests or regulated non-quarantine pests. The fourth group consists of H. gracilis only. This worldwide occurring species is present in the EU where it does not cause economic damage. It does not satisfy all the criteria to be regarded as a Union quarantine pest., (© 2018 European Food Safety Authority. EFSA Journal published by John Wiley and Sons Ltd on behalf of European Food Safety Authority.)

The Panel on Plant Health performed a pest categorisation of Colletotrichum gossypii , the fungal agent of anthracnose and ramulosis diseases of cotton, for the EU. The identity of the pest is well established and reliable methods exist for its detection/identification. The pest is present in most of the cotton-growing areas worldwide, including Bulgaria and Romania in the EU. Colletotrichum gossypii is listed as Glomerella gossypii in Annex IIB of Directive 2000/29/EC and is not known to occur in Greece, which is a protected zone (PZ). The only hosts are Gossypium species, with G. hirsutum and G. barbadense being the most susceptible. The pest could potentially enter the PZ on cotton seeds originating in infested third countries or EU infested areas. Entry into PZ by natural means from EU infested areas is possible, although there is uncertainty on the maximum distance the pest can travel by wind or insects. Bolls and unginned cotton are minor pathways of entry. Pest distribution and climate matching suggest that the pest could establish and spread in cotton-producing areas of northern Greece. In the infested areas, the pest causes damping-off, leaf/boll spotting, boll rot, witches' broom symptoms and stunting resulting in yield and quality losses. It affects also the lint and seeds reducing fibres quality and seed germinability. It is expected that its introduction and spread in the EU PZ would impact cotton yield and quality. The agricultural practices and control methods currently applied in Greece would not prevent pest establishment and spread. Colletotrichum gossypii meets all the criteria assessed by EFSA for consideration as potential quarantine pest for the EU PZ of Greece. The criteria for considering C. gossypii as a potential Union regulated non-quarantine pest are also met since cotton seeds are the main means of spread., (© 2018 European Food Safety Authority. EFSA Journal published by John Wiley and Sons Ltd on behalf of European Food Safety Authority.)

Following a request from the European Commission, the EFSA Panel on Plant Health performed a pest categorisation of Guignardia laricina , a well-defined and distinguishable fungal species of the family Phyllostictaceae. The pathogen is regulated in Council Directive 2000/29/EC (Annex IAI) as a harmful organism whose introduction into the EU is banned. G. laricina is native to East Asia and causes a shoot blight disease of Larix spp. Major hosts of G. laricina are European larch ( Larix decidua ) and two North American larch species ( Larix laricina (tamarack) and Larix occidentalis (Western larch)). Larix kaempferi (Japanese larch) is reported as susceptible. The only other host in nature is Douglas fir ( Pseudotsuga menziesii) , which is reported as an incidental host, but various other conifers have been reported as susceptible following artificial inoculation, including Picea abies . The fungus is not known to occur in the EU but could enter via plants for planting (including artificially dwarfed plants) and cut branches of Larix spp. It could establish in the EU, as hosts are present and climatic conditions are favourable. The pathogen would be able to spread following establishment by natural dissemination of ascospores and pycnospores and by human movement of infected plants for planting. Should the pathogen be introduced in the EU, impacts can be expected in larch forests, plantations and nurseries, leading to reduced tree growth and ecosystem service provision. The key uncertainties concern the current distribution and level of impacts in the native range of the pathogen. The criteria assessed by the Panel for consideration as a potential quarantine pest are met. As the pest is not present in the EU, not all criteria for consideration as a regulated non-quarantine pest are met., (© 2018 European Food Safety Authority. EFSA Journal published by John Wiley and Sons Ltd on behalf of European Food Safety Authority.)

Following a request from the European Commission, the EFSA Panel on Plant Health performed a pest categorisation of the seed-borne bacterium Curtobacterium flaccumfaciens pv. flaccumfaciens . The pest is regulated in Council Directive 2000/29/EC (Annex IIB) as a harmful organism whose introduction into, and spread within, the protected zones (PZ) of Greece, Portugal and Spain shall be banned if present on seeds of Phaseolus vulgaris and of Dolichos . The bacterium is widely distributed outside the EU and causes a systemic vascular disease (bacterial wilt of bean) as well as bacterial tan spot disease on soybean. The pest was sporadically recorded in several EU Member States in the past, but is currently not known to occur in the EU. The identity of the bacterium is well established and identification methods are available. The major host is common bean ( Phaseolus vulgaris ), but other crops and weeds are, or may be, hosts or play a role as reservoirs, with uncertainties. Seed transmission remains uncertain for minor and alternative host species. The main pathway for entry is seed. The role of other pathways (e.g. irrigation water and infected residues) is uncertain. Should the bacterium enter the EU (including the PZ), it may establish, spread and have an impact on its host crops. The use of healthy seeds is the most effective control measure. Curtobacterium flaccumfaciens pv. flaccumfaciens fits all the criteria assessed by EFSA to be regarded as a Union quarantine pest., (© 2018 European Food Safety Authority. EFSA Journal published by John Wiley and Sons Ltd on behalf of European Food Safety Authority.)

The Panel on Plant Health performed a pest categorisation of the fungus Apiosporina morbosa , the causal agent of black knot, for the EU. The identity of the pest is well established and reliable methods exist for its detection/identification. The pest is listed in Annex IIAI of Directive 2000/29/EC and is not known to occur in the EU. Apiosporina morbosa is present in Alaska, Canada, Mexico and the continental states of the USA. The major hosts of A. morbosa are Prunus domestica and Prunus cerasus ; the host status of other Prunus species and hybrids is uncertain because of contradictory reports or lack of information. The pest could potentially enter the EU on host plants for planting and plant parts originating in infested third countries. Wood of Prunus spp. is also a pathway of entry, but of minor importance. The current pest distribution and climate matching suggest that the pest could establish and spread in the EU wherever the hosts are grown. In the infested areas, the pest causes girdling of twigs and occasionally of larger branches, whereas trees with multiple infections loose vigour, bloom poorly, and become unproductive, stunted and susceptible to winter injury and infection by other pathogens. The presence of black knots makes trees unsuitable for timber production. It is expected that the pest introduction and spread in the EU would impact host production. Uncertainty exists on whether the agricultural practices and chemical control methods applied in the EU could prevent the establishment and spread of A. morbosa . A. morbosa meets all the criteria assessed by EFSA for consideration as potential Union quarantine pest. As the pest is not known to occur in the EU, this criterion to consider it as Union regulated non-quarantine pest is not met., (© 2018 European Food Safety Authority. EFSA Journal published by John Wiley and Sons Ltd on behalf of European Food Safety Authority.)

The Panel on Plant Health performed a pest categorisation of the weevil Anthonomus quadrigibbus Say, (Coleoptera: Curculionidae), for the EU. A. quadrigibbus is a well-defined and distinguishable species, recognised as an occasional pest of apples, pears and sour cherries in North America where it also feeds on a range of wild rosaceous plants such as Crataegus and Amelanchier . Adults feed on leaves, flowers and fruit. Feeding damage to fruit reduces quality. Females oviposit into young fruit, causing surface blemishes and resulting in distortion as the fruit develops. Marketability is subsequently reduced. Larvae and pupae develop within host fruit. Most infested fruit fall prematurely, reducing yield. A. quadrigibbus was regarded as a more serious pest in the early 20th century. A. quadrigibbus is not known to occur in the EU and is listed in Annex IIAI of Council Directive 2000/29/EC under the synonym Tachypterellus quadrigibbus . Host plants for planting and infested fruit could potentially provide a pathway into the EU. Considering the climatic similarities between North America and Europe, and that wild and commercial hosts occur widely within the EU, A. quadrigibbus has the potential to establish within the EU. There would be one generation per year, as in North America. Impacts could be expected in apple, pear and perhaps sour cherry orchards. The level of impacts would be uncertain. There is also uncertainty regarding whether A. quadrigibbus would extend its host range to include other Rosaceae within the EU. Phytosanitary measures are available to reduce the likelihood of introduction of A. quadrigibbus . All criteria assessed by EFSA for consideration as a potential Union quarantine pest are met. As A. quadrigibbus is not known to occur in the EU, this criterion assessed by EFSA to consider it as a Union regulated non-quarantine pest is not met., (© 2018 European Food Safety Authority. EFSA Journal published by John Wiley and Sons Ltd on behalf of European Food Safety Authority.)

Following a request from the European Commission, the EFSA Plant Health Panel performed a pest categorisation of Sphaerulina musiva , a well-defined and distinguishable fungal species of the family Mycosphaerellaceae. Following a recent phylogenetic analysis of the genus Septoria and other closely related genera, a new name ( S. musiva ) was introduced for the species. The former species name Mycosphaerella populorum is used in the Council Directive 2000/29/EC. The pathogen is regulated in Annex IAI as a harmful organism whose introduction into the EU is banned. S. musiva is reported from North and South America and not known to occur in the EU. S. musiva causes Septoria leaf spots and cankers of poplar ( Populus spp.). Of the poplars native to Europe, Populus nigra is reported as susceptible and Populus tremula as susceptible when planted in North America. The hybrid Populus x canadensis (arising from a cross of P. nigra and the North American Populus deltoides ), widely grown in the EU, is also susceptible. The pest could enter the EU on plants for planting, cut branches, isolated bark and wood with and without bark. S. musiva could establish in the EU, as hosts are common and favourable climatic conditions are widespread, and could spread following establishment by natural dispersal and movement of infected plants for planting, cut branches, isolated bark and wood with or without bark. The pest introduction would have impacts in woodlands, plantations and nurseries. The pathogen is considered the most serious disease affecting hybrid poplar production in North America. Selection, breeding and planting of resistant species and clones are the main methods used to control the damage caused by the pathogen. There is some uncertainty on the geographical distribution of the pest in the Caucasus, the Crimean Peninsula and South America and on the level of susceptibility among Populus species native to Europe as well as Salix spp. The criteria assessed by the Panel for consideration as a potential quarantine pest are met. For regulated non-quarantine pests, the criterion on the pest presence in the EU is not met., (© 2018 European Food Safety Authority. EFSA Journal published by John Wiley and Sons Ltd on behalf of European Food Safety Authority.)

The EFSA Panel on Plant Health performed a pest categorisation of 'Blight and blight-like' for the EU territory. Blight is a major disease of citrus. Similar 'blight-like' diseases are also known (e.g. declinio, declinamiento) and are addressed simultaneously with Blight in the present categorisation. The causal agent(s) remain(s) unknown and the potential role of a recently identified citrus endogenous pararetrovirus (Citrus Blight-associated pararetrovirus, CBaPRV) remains to be established. Transmissibility and ability to produce consistent (although poorly specific) symptoms have been demonstrated and a combination of indirect approaches is used, with limits, for diagnosis. There are large uncertainties on the biology of the causal agent(s) and on the epidemiology of the disease, including the transmission mechanism(s) responsible for the observed field spread. Blight has been reported from North, Central and South America, Africa and Oceania but is not known to occur in the EU. It is listed in Annex IIA of Directive 2000/29EC. It has the potential to enter, establish and spread in the EU territory. The main entry pathway (citrus plants for planting) is closed by existing legislation and entry is only possible on minor pathways (such as illegal import). Blight is a severe disease and a negative impact is expected should it be introduced in the EU, but the magnitude of this negative impact is very difficult to estimate. 'Blight and blight like' satisfies all criteria evaluated by EFSA to qualify as a Union quarantine pest. It does not meet the criterion of being present in the EU to qualify as a Union regulated non-quarantine pest (RNQP). Since the identity of the causal agent(s) of the Blight and blight-like disease(s) and the existence and efficiency of natural spread mechanism(s) remain unknown, large uncertainties affect all aspects of the present pest categorisation., (© 2018 European Food Safety Authority. EFSA Journal published by John Wiley and Sons Ltd on behalf of European Food Safety Authority.)

Following a request from the European Commission, the EFSA Panel on Plant Health (PLH) performed a pest categorisation of Mycodiella laricis-leptolepidis , a well-defined and distinguishable fungal species of the family Mycosphaerellaceae. The former species name Mycosphaerella laricis-leptolepis is used in the Council Directive 2000/29/EC. The pathogen is regulated in Annex IAI as a harmful organism whose introduction into the EU is banned. M. laricis-leptolepidis is native to East Asia and causes a disease known as needle cast of Japanese larch ( Larix kaempferi = Larix leptolepis ) and Kurile larch ( Larix gmelinii ). European larch ( Larix decidua ) was found to be susceptible to the disease as introduced tree in Japan. The fungus could enter the EU via plants for planting and cut branches of Larix spp. It could establish in the EU, as hosts are present and climatic conditions are favourable. The pathogen would be able to spread following establishment by human movement of infected plants for planting and by dissemination of ascospores. Should the pathogen be introduced in the EU, impacts can be expected due to needle loss in larch forests and plantations, thus leading to reduced tree growth and ecosystem service provision. The use of resistant/tolerant varieties can reduce the impacts. The key uncertainties are the knowledge gaps concerning (i) the potential range of spread through ascospores and (ii) the level of impacts in the native range of the pathogen. The criteria assessed by the Panel for consideration as a potential quarantine pest are met. For regulated non-quarantine pests, the criterion on the pest presence in the EU is not met., (© 2018 European Food Safety Authority. EFSA Journal published by John Wiley and Sons Ltd on behalf of European Food Safety Authority.)

The Panel on Plant Health performed a pest categorisation of Nacobbus aberrans (Nematoda: Pratylenchidae), the false root-knot nematode, for the EU. The nematode was originally described from the American continent. Due to differences in host range as well as molecular variability among populations, N. aberrans should be regarded as a species complex ( N. aberrans sensu lato ). All populations belonging to this species complex are pests of important host plants in the EU. N. aberrans had been detected indoors in the EU in the 1950s and 1960s but is no longer reported to be present in the EU. It is regulated by Council Directive 2000/29/EC, listed in Annex IAI as N. aberrans (Thorne) Thorne and Allen. Species within the N. aberrans complex are endoparasitic with migratory and sedentary stages. They are highly polyphagous attacking many plant species. They are also found in soil where they can survive dry conditions and freezing temperatures. Plants for planting and soil are potential pathways for this nematode. Climatic conditions in the EU are similar to those found in the countries where the pest is present. Hosts of the nematode from which high-yield losses have been reported include potato, sugar beet, tomato and beans. The nematode only moves short distances (around 1m) but may be spread with plants and soil moving activities. Measures are available to inhibit EU entry via potatoes and soil as such but not all host plants are covered by current legislation. Entry of the nematode with plants and soil attached to plants for planting that are not regulated is therefore possible. N. aberrans does satisfy all the criteria that are within the remit of EFSA to assess to be regarded as a Union quarantine pest., (© 2018 European Food Safety Authority. EFSA Journal published by John Wiley and Sons Ltd on behalf of European Food Safety Authority.)

The Panel on Plant Health performed a pest categorisation of the soil-borne fungus Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. albedinis , the causal agent of Fusarium wilt of date palm, for the EU. The identity of the pest is well established and reliable methods exist for its detection/identification. The pest is listed in Annex IIAI of Directive 2000/29/EC and is not known to occur in the EU. Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. albedinis is present in Morocco, Algeria and Mauritania. Its major host is Phoenix dactylifera , which is the only Phoenix species known to be affected by the pest. Uncertainty exists about the host status of Lawsonia inermis , Medicago sativa and Trifolium spp. cultivated as intercrops in the infested areas and reported as being symptomless carriers of the pest. The pest could potentially enter the EU on host plants and soil/growing media originating in infested Third countries. The current pest distribution and climate matching suggest that the pest could establish and spread in the EU wherever the host is present. In the infested areas, the pest causes vascular wilt resulting in yield/quality losses and plant death. It is expected that pest introduction and spread in the EU could impact date production. The pest is expected to have high environmental consequences in the Elche area (Spain), which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, as well as other EU areas where P. dactylifera is grown as an amenity tree. Current EU phytosanitary measures are not fully effective at mitigating the risk of introduction and spread of the pest in the EU. Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. albedinis meets all the criteria assessed by EFSA for consideration as potential Union quarantine pest. As the pest is not known to occur in the EU, this criterion to consider it as Union regulated non-quarantine pest is not met., (© 2018 European Food Safety Authority. EFSA Journal published by John Wiley and Sons Ltd on behalf of European Food Safety Authority.)

The Panel on Plant Health performed a pest categorisation of the citrus snow scale, Unaspis citri (Comstock) (Hemiptera: Diaspididae), for the European Union (EU). This is a well-defined and distinguishable species, native to south-eastern Asia, which has spread to many tropical and subtropical regions. U. citri can be a pest of citrus and has been cited on over 28 different species in 16 plant families. In the EU, U. citri occurs in the Azores. There is uncertainty as to whether it occurs in continental Portugal. Reports of it occurring in Greece and Spain are likely to be invalid and based on interception records from these countries. An old Italian record is a misidentification. U. citri is listed in Annex IIAI of 2000/29/EC as a harmful organism. The international trade of hosts, as either plants for planting, fruit or cut flowers, provide potential pathways into the EU. However, current EU legislation prohibits the import of citrus plants for planting from third countries. U. citri is mostly confined to coastal humid tropical areas and does not occur in semi-arid areas that are irrigated. Nevertheless, given that it occurs in the Azores and that there are regional climatic similarities between places where U. citri occurs and climates within the EU, and taking EU host distribution into account, U. citri has the potential to establish in the EU, especially in citrus-growing regions around the Mediterranean where losses in quality and yield of citrus could occur. Phytosanitary measures are available to inhibit the likelihood of introduction of U. citri . Considering the criteria within the remit of EFSA to assess the status as a potential Union quarantine pest (QP), or as a potential regulated non-quarantine pest (RNQP), U. citri meets the criteria assessed by EFSA for consideration as a potential Union QP., (© 2018 European Food Safety Authority. EFSA Journal published by John Wiley and Sons Ltd on behalf of European Food Safety Authority.)

The Panel on Plant Health performed a pest categorisation of the citrus thrips, Scirtothrips citri (Moulton) (Thysanoptera: Thripidae), for the European Union (EU). This is a well-defined and distinguishable species, occurring in North America and Asia. Its precise distribution in Asia is uncertain. S. citri is a pest of citrus and blueberries and has been cited on over 50 different host species in 33 plant families. Whether all plants reported as hosts are true hosts, allowing population development of S. citri , is uncertain. S. citri feeds exclusively on young actively growing foliage and fruit. It is not known to occur in the EU and is listed in Annex IIAI of 2000/29/EC as a harmful organism. The international trade of hosts, as either plants for planting or cut flowers, provide potential pathways into the EU. However, current EU legislation prohibits the import of citrus plants for planting. Furthermore, measures aimed at the import of plants for planting in a dormant stage (no young foliage or fruits present) with no soil/growing medium attached, decreases the likelihood of the pest's entry via other hosts. Considering that there are regional climatic similarities where S. citri occurs in the USA with climates in the EU, and taking EU host distribution into account, S. citri has the potential to establish in the EU, especially in citrus and blueberry growing regions around the Mediterranean where quality losses in citrus and yield losses in blueberry could occur. Phytosanitary measures are available to inhibit the likelihood of introduction of S. citri from infested countries. Considering the criteria within the remit of EFSA to assess its status as a potential Union quarantine pest (QP) or as a potential regulated non-quarantine pest (RNQP), S. citri meets with no uncertainties the criteria assessed by EFSA for consideration as a potential Union QP., (© 2018 European Food Safety Authority. EFSA Journal published by John Wiley and Sons Ltd on behalf of European Food Safety Authority.)

The Panel on Plant Health performed a pest categorisation of the South African citrus thrips, Scirtothrips aurantii Faure (Thysanoptera: Thripidae), for the European Union (EU). This is a well-defined and distinguishable species, recognised as a pest of citrus and mangoes in South Africa, which has been cited on more than 70 different plants, including woody and herbaceous species. It feeds exclusively on young actively growing foliage and fruit. S. aurantii is not known to occur in the EU and is listed in Annex IIAI of 2000/29/EC as a harmful organism presenting a risk to EU plant health. The international trade of hosts as either plants for planting or cut flowers provide potential pathways into the EU. However, current EU legislation prohibits the import of citrus plants. Furthermore, measures aimed at the import of plants for planting in a dormant stage (no young foliage or fruits present) with no soil/growing medium attached, decreases the likelihood of the pest entry with such plants. Interceptions have occurred on Eustoma grandiflorum cut flowers. Considering climatic similarities between some of the countries where S. aurantii occurs (South Africa, Australia) and the EU, its thermal biology and host distribution in the EU, S. aurantii has the potential to establish, especially in citrus-growing regions of the EU. S. aurantii would most probably breed all year long around the Mediterranean and could cause crop losses in citrus, especially oranges. Phytosanitary measures are available to inhibit the introduction of S. aurantii . Considering the criteria within the remit of EFSA to assess its status as a potential Union quarantine pest (QP) or as a potential regulated non-quarantine pest (RNQP), S. aurantii meets with no uncertainties the criteria assessed by EFSA for consideration as a potential Union QP., (© 2018 European Food Safety Authority. EFSA Journal published by John Wiley and Sons Ltd on behalf of European Food Safety Authority.)

The Panel on Plant Health performed a pest categorisation of the gall midge Aschistonyx eppoi Inouye (1964) (Diptera, Cecidomyiidae), for the EU. A. eppoi is a well-defined and distinguishable species, native to Japan and Korea, and recognised as a pest of Juniperus chinensis , although our knowledge is solely based on one unique publication. A. eppoi is absent from the EU, and is listed in Annex IIAI of Directive 2000/29/EC. Its host plants, Juniperus spp. are also listed in Annex III of Directive 2000/29/EC. Plants for planting and branches are considered as pathways for this pest. A. eppoi has been intercepted twice (1974; 1975) in the EU and has been eradicated. The pest is likely to affect bonsai plants of J. chinensis if it were to establish in the EU territory. However, as it is unknown whether A. eppoi would attack the Juniperus spp. that occur in the EU, its potential impact on the wild vegetation is also unknown. As the pest originates from areas with warm climates, impact outdoors would affect the southern parts of the EU. Cultural control (destruction of infested material) and chemical control are the major control methods. All criteria assessed by EFSA for consideration as a potential quarantine pest are met, although there are high uncertainties regarding impact. The species is presently absent from the EU, and thus the criteria for consideration as a potential regulated non-quarantine pest are not met., (© 2018 European Food Safety Authority. EFSA Journal published by John Wiley and Sons Ltd on behalf of European Food Safety Authority.)

Following a request from the European Commission, the EFSA Plant Health (PLH) Panel performed a pest categorisation of Bretziella fagacearum , a well-defined and distinguishable fungal species of the family Ceratocystidaceae. The species was moved from the genus Ceratocystis to a new genus Bretziella following phylogenetic analysis of the species and its close relatives. The former species name Ceratocystis fagacearum is used in the Council Directive 2000/29/EC. The pathogen is regulated in Annex IAI as a harmful organism whose introduction into the EU is banned. B. fagacearum is only reported from the USA, where it causes a wilt disease on Quercus spp. Other hosts are reported based on inoculation trials, although Chinese chestnut ( Castanea mollissima ) is reported to be naturally infected. No North American oak species has been found to be immune to the disease. The European oak species Quercus robur , Quercus petraea and Quercus pubescens were found to be susceptible in inoculation experiments. The pest could enter the EU via wood (with and without bark, including wood packaging material), plants for planting and cut branches. Hosts and favourable climatic conditions are common in the EU, thus facilitating establishment. The pest would be able to spread following establishment by means of root grafts, insect vectors and movement of wood, plants for planting and other means. The pest introduction would have impacts in woodland and plantations, as oak wilt disease is often lethal in a short period of time. Wood treatment (debarking, kiln drying, fumigation), prompt removal of affected trees and creating root-free zones between affected and healthy stands are available control measures. The main knowledge gaps concern (i) the survival of the fungus in wood during transport and the association with propagation material, (ii) the presence of suitable vectors in Europe and (iii) the relative susceptibility of the oak species native to Europe under natural conditions. The criteria assessed by the Panel for consideration as a potential quarantine pest are met. For regulated non-quarantine pests, the criterion on the pest presence in the EU is not met., (© 2018 European Food Safety Authority. EFSA Journal published by John Wiley and Sons Ltd on behalf of European Food Safety Authority.)

Following a request from the European Commission, the EFSA Plant Health (PLH) Panel performed a pest categorisation of Anisogramma anomala , a well-defined and distinguishable fungal species of the family Valsaceae. The pathogen is regulated in Annex IIAI of Council Directive 2000/29/EC as a harmful organism whose introduction into the EU is banned on plants of Corylus L., intended for planting, other than seeds, originating in Canada and the USA. The fungus is native to eastern North America and causes eastern filbert blight on cultivated hazel, Corylus avellana , as well as on wild hazel ( Corylus spp.). In the 1960s, the disease spread on infected plant material to Oregon, where it then threatened US hazelnut production in the Willamette Valley. The pest could enter the EU via plants for planting. Hosts and favourable climatic conditions are common in the EU, thus facilitating establishment. The pest would be able to spread following establishment through infected plants for planting and ascospore dispersal. A. anomala leads to canopy and yield loss and can cause death of Corylus trees. Should the pathogen be introduced into the EU, impacts can be expected not just on hazel as a crop and as an ornamental but also in coppices and woodlands, where Corylus species provide an important habitat. In Oregon, scouting for cankers, therapeutic pruning and copious fungicide applications are reported to be necessary (but costly measures) to continue hazelnut production in the presence of the disease. Breeding for resistance led to the selection of resistant cultivars. The main knowledge gaps concern (i) the role of deadwood and cut branches as potential entry pathways and means of spread and (ii) the susceptibility of C. avellana cultivars and of Corylus spp. in the wild in the EU. The criteria assessed by the Panel for consideration as a potential quarantine pest are met. For regulated non-quarantine pests, the criterion on the pest presence in the EU is not met., (© 2018 European Food Safety Authority. EFSA Journal published by John Wiley and Sons Ltd on behalf of European Food Safety Authority.)

The Plant Health Panel reviewed the paper by Guarnaccia et al. (2017) and compared their findings with previous predictions on the establishment of Phyllosticta citricarpa . Four species of Phyllosticta were found by Guarnaccia et al. (2017) in Europe. P. citricarpa and P. capitalensis are well-defined species, with P. citricarpa recorded for the first time in Europe, confirming predictions by Magarey et al. (2015) and EFSA (2008, 2014, 2016) that P. citricarpa can establish in some European citrus-growing regions. Two new species P. paracitricarpa and P. paracapitalensis were also described, with P. paracitricarpa (found only in Greece) shown to be pathogenic on sweet orange fruits. Genotyping of the P. citricarpa isolates suggests at least two independent introductions, with the population in Portugal being different from that present in Malta and Italy. P. citricarpa and P. paracitricarpa were isolated only from leaf litter in backyards. However, since P. citricarpa does not infect or colonise dead leaves, the pathogen must have infected the above living leaves in citrus trees nearby. Guarnaccia et al. (2017) considered introduction to be a consequence of P. citricarpa having long been present or of illegal movement of planting material. In the Panel's view, the fruit pathway would be an equally or more likely origin. The authors did not report how surveys for citrus black spot (CBS) disease were carried out, therefore their claim that there was no CBS disease even where the pathogen was present is not supported by the results presented. From previous simulations, the locations where Guarnaccia et al. (2017) found P. citricarpa or P. paracitricarpa were conducive for P. citricarpa establishment, with number of simulated infection events by pycnidiospores comparable to sites of CBS occurrence outside Europe. Preliminary surveys by National Plant Protection Organisations (NPPOs) have not confirmed so far the findings by Guarnaccia et al. (2017) but monitoring is still ongoing., (© 2018 European Food Safety Authority. EFSA Journal published by John Wiley and Sons Ltd on behalf of European Food Safety Authority.)

The Panel on Plant health performed a pest categorisation of the Australian Eucalyptus snout-beetle Gonipterus scutellatus (Coleoptera: Curculionidae), for the EU. G. scutellatus should be referred as the G. scutellatus species complex because it includes several cryptic species. A complete nomenclature of the species present in the EU is still pending. It is a quarantine pest listed in Annex IIB of Council Directive 2000/29/EC. Protected zones are in place in Greece and Portugal (Azores). In the EU, it has been found in Italy, France, Spain and Portugal. It only consumes Eucalyptus species leaves. The main pathways of spread are the trade of Eucalyptus timber, hitchhiking in various commodities, trade of apple fruit as well as of plants for planting or plant parts. Spread by flight is also possible. The climate of the EU protected zones is similar to that of the Member States (MS) where the G. scutellatus complex is established, and the pest's main host plants are present. The damaged trees suffer die-back and the development of epicormics shoots. Severe attacks may provoke massive amounts of tree death. Biological control by using the egg parasitoid wasp Anaphes nitens is the most effective control measure. Some species within the G. scutellatus complex are not yet present in the EU (including G. scutellatus sensu stricto) and might therefore be considered as potential union quarantine pests for the EU territory. At least two species within the G. scutellatus complex (most likely G. platensis and Gonipterus species no. 2) meet the criteria assessed by EFSA for consideration as potential protected zone quarantine pests for the territory of the protected zones: Greece and Portugal (Azores). The criteria for considering the G. scutellatus complex as a potential regulated non-quarantine pest for the EU are not met since plants for planting are not the main pathway., (© 2018 European Food Safety Authority. EFSA Journal published by John Wiley and Sons Ltd on behalf of European Food Safety Authority.)

The Panel on Plant Health performed a pest categorisation of Tecia   solanivora (Lepidoptera: Gelechiidae) the Guatemalan potato tuber moth, for the EU. T. solanivora is a well-defined species which feeds exclusively on Solanum tuberosum . It was first described from Costa Rica in 1973 and has spread through Central America and into northern South America via trade of seed potatoes. It has also spread to Mexico and the Canary Islands and most recently to mainland Spain where it is under official control in Galicia and Asturias. Potatoes in the field and storage can be attacked. Some authors regard T. solanivora as the most important insect pest of potatoes globally. T. solanivora is currently regulated by Council Directive 2000/29/EC, listed in Annex II/AI as Scrobipalpopsis solanivora . Larvae feed and develop within potato tubers; infested tubers therefore provide a pathway for pest introduction and spread, as does the soil accompanying potato tubers if it is infested with eggs or pupae. As evidenced by the ongoing outbreaks in Spain, the EU has suitable conditions for the development and potential establishment of T. solanivora . The pest could spread within the EU via movement of infested tubers; adults can fly and disperse locally. Larval feeding destroys tubers in the field and in storage. In the warmer southern EU, where the development would be fastest, yield losses would be expected in potatoes. Measures are available to inhibit entry via traded commodities (e.g. prohibition on the introduction of S. tuberosum ). T. solanivora satisfies all of the criteria assessed by EFSA to satisfy the definition of a Union quarantine pest. It does not satisfy EU regulated non-quarantine pest (RNQP) status because it is under official control. There are uncertainties over the effectiveness of preventing illegal imports via passenger baggage and the magnitude of potential impacts in the cool EU climate., (© 2018 European Food Safety Authority. EFSA Journal published by John Wiley and Sons Ltd on behalf of European Food Safety Authority.)

The EFSA Panel on Plant Health performed a pest categorisation for Xanthomonas oryzae pathovars oryzae (Xoo) and oryzicola (Xoc), the causal agents of the bacterial blight and the bacterial leaf streak of rice, respectively. These pathovars are widely distributed in Asia, Africa and Australia. Xoo is also reported in some states of the USA and in some other countries of America. The identity of both pathovars is well established and efficient identification methods are available. The major host is cultivated rice ( Oryza   sativa) , but different Oryza spp. as well as Poaceae weeds are reported as alternative hosts, with some uncertainty concerning the actual host range. Both pathovars are seed associated, despite the fact that seed transmission is still controversial for Xoo. Both pathovars are already regulated in Directives 2000/29/EC, on harmful organisms for plants, and 66/402/EEC, on the marketing of cereal seeds. The main pathway for entry is seed. Should these pathovars enter into EU, they may establish and spread, and they may have an impact on the rice crops, with uncertainties. The knowledge gaps identified are (1) the quantity of EU importation of rice seeds, (2) the risk of introduction through unprocessed rice for consumption, (3) the suitability of the EU growing climate conditions for the bacteria to establish and spread, (4) role of seed transmission (Xoo), (5) the role of weeds in the epidemiology and especially in seed transmission and dispersal, (6) host range of weeds. As none of the pathovars is known to occur in the EU, they do not meet one of the criteria for being considered as Union regulated non-quarantine pests. Nevertheless, both pathovars meet the criteria assessed by EFSA for consideration as Union quarantine pest., (© 2018 European Food Safety Authority. EFSA Journal published by John Wiley and Sons Ltd on behalf of European Food Safety Authority.)

The European Commission requested EFSA to conduct a pest categorisation of Toxoptera citricida (Hemiptera: Aphididae), an oligophagous aphid developing and reproducing parthenogenetically on tender leaf and flower flush of citrus (Rutaceae). T. citricida is a taxonomic entity with reliable methods available for detection and identification. It is regulated in the EU by Council Directive 2000/29/EC where it is listed in Annex IIAI as a harmful organism whose introduction and spread into the EU shall be banned. T. citricida is native to tropical regions of Southeast Asia and has spread to most citrus-growing areas worldwide, except California and the Mediterranean basin, causing significant damage to citrus as it is the most efficient vector of the Citrus tristeza virus (CTV). T. citricida occurs in Madeira and, with a restricted distribution, in the north-west of the Iberian Peninsula, mostly on backyard citrus trees. This may have hindered the effectiveness of the official control measures in these areas. There are further phytosanitary measures in place in the EU in order to limit entry via traded commodities. Citrus plants for planting are regulated and are a closed pathway. However, there is uncertainty regarding host status of some non-rutaceous plants on which this aphid has been recorded and so other plant genera may provide additional pathways. The EFSA Plant Health Panel concludes that the establishment of T. citricida in the main EU citrus growing areas around the Mediterranean would have significant impacts because of its ability to vector CTV. Considering the criteria within the remit of EFSA to assess the status as a potential Union quarantine pest (QP), as a potential protected zone quarantine pest (PZQP) or as a potential regulated non-quarantine pest (RNQP), T. citricida meets with no uncertainties the criteria assessed by EFSA for consideration as a potential Union QP., (© 2018 European Food Safety Authority. EFSA Journal published by John Wiley and Sons Ltd on behalf of European Food Safety Authority.)

The Panel on Plant Health performed a pest categorisation of Listronotus bonariensis (Coleoptera: Curculionidae), the Argentine stem weevil, for the EU. L. bonariensis is a well-defined species, recognised as a serious pest of pasture grasses, especially Lolium spp. and Poa annua , in New Zealand, and a rare pest of cereals in Argentina, Brazil and New Zealand. Larvae feed within the tillers and stems of grasses; adults can cut emerging cotyledons although they usually graze on leaves. Larval damage is most serious. Larval feeding causes a reduction in pasture quality that impacts on the production of grazing animals. L. bonariensis is not known to occur in the EU and is listed in Annex IIAI of Council Directive 2000/29/EC. L. bonariensis established in New Zealand via imported grass seeds and has been intercepted on grass seeds entering the EU. Considering the climatic similarities of the regions where the pest occurs and the very great extent to which hosts are grown across the EU, L. bonariensis has the potential to establish within the EU with two or three generations possible per year. Impacts could occur in grassland pastures and perhaps occasionally in cereals. In New Zealand, endophytic fungi occurring on potential hosts deter L. bonariensis from ovipositing on leaves and are toxic to larvae. Whether endophytic fungi on grasses in Europe could provide some resistance to L. bonariensis is uncertain. Phytosanitary measures are available to reduce the likelihood of introduction of this weevil . L. bonariensis fits all of the criteria assessed by EFSA to satisfy the definition of a Union quarantine pest . L. bonariensis does not meet the criterion of occurring in the EU territory for it to be regarded as a Union regulated non-quarantine pest., (© 2018 European Food Safety Authority. EFSA Journal published by John Wiley and Sons Ltd on behalf of European Food Safety Authority.)

The Panel on Plant Health performed a pest categorisation of Elsinoë fawcettii and E. australis , the causal agents of citrus scab diseases, for the EU. The identities of the pests are well-established and reliable methods exist for their detection/identification. The pests are listed in Annex IIAI of Directive 2000/29/EC as Elsinoë spp. and are not known to occur in the EU. Species and hybrids of citrus (Family Rutaceae) are affected by E. fawcettii and E. australis , with the latter having a more restricted host range and geographical distribution compared to the former. The status of Simmondsia chinensis (jojoba) as a host of E. australis is uncertain. The pests could potentially enter the EU on host plants for planting and fruit originating in infested Third countries. The current distribution of the pests, climate matching and the use of irrigation in the EU citrus-growing areas suggest that the pests could establish and spread in the EU citrus-growing areas. Uncertainty exists on whether cultural practices and control methods, currently applied in the EU, would prevent the establishment of the pests. In the infested areas, the pests cause scab pustules on host leaves and fruit resulting in yield/quality losses. It is expected that the introduction and spread of the pests in the EU could impact citrus production. Cultural practices and chemical control measures may reduce the inoculum sources and to some extent the disease incidence, but they cannot eliminate the pests. Phytosanitary measures are available to mitigate the risk of introduction and spread of the pests in the EU. E. fawcettii and E. australis meet all the criteria assessed by EFSA for consideration as potential Union quarantine pests. As those pests are not known to occur in the EU, this criterion to consider them as Union regulated non-quarantine pests is not met., (© 2017 European Food Safety Authority. EFSA Journal published by John Wiley and Sons Ltd on behalf of European Food Safety Authority.)

The Panel on Plant Health performed a pest categorisation of small-spored Alternaria carrying the genes for the AM- or AK-toxin biosynthesis, for the EU. The identity of the pests is clearly defined and reliable methods exist for their detection/identification. They are listed in Annex IIAI of Directive 2000/29/EC as Alternaria alternata (non-European pathogenic isolates). Their distribution in the EU is restricted though with some uncertainty. The AM-toxin producer Alternaria affect Malus spp. and Pyrus communis (European pear), whereas the AK-toxin producer affect Pyrus pyrifolia, Pyrus bretschneideri and Pyrus ussuriensis (Asian pears). The pests could potentially enter the EU on host-planting material and fruit originating in infested countries. There are no biotic/abiotic factors limiting their potential establishment and spread in the EU, as their epidemiology is similar to that of other well-established Alternaria spp. Apples and European pears are widespread in the EU; Japanese pears are also present, but no data was found on their abundance/distribution. In the infested areas, the pests cause premature defoliation, fruit spotting and rot resulting in yield/quality losses. It is expected that the introduction and spread of the pests in the EU could impact apple and pear production, although the magnitude is unknown. Cultural practices and chemical measures may reduce the inoculum and the disease, but they cannot eliminate the pests. Phytosanitary measures are available to mitigate the risk of introduction and spread of the pests. The pests do not meet all the criteria assessed by EFSA for consideration as potential Union quarantine pests, as they are not under official control in those EU restricted areas where they have been found. The pests do not meet all the criteria assessed by EFSA to consider them as Union regulated non-quarantine pests, as host plants for planting are not the main means of pest spread., (© 2017 European Food Safety Authority. EFSA Journal published by John Wiley and Sons Ltd on behalf of European Food Safety Authority.)

Following a request from the European Commission, the EFSA Panel on Plant Health (PLH) performed a pest categorisation of Davidsoniella virescens , a well-defined and distinguishable fungal species of the family Ceratocystidaceae. The species was moved from the genus Ceratocystis to the genus Davidsoniella following a revision of the family. The former species name Ceratocystis virescens is used in the Council Directive 2000/29/EC. The pathogen is regulated in Annex IIAI as a harmful organism whose introduction into the EU is banned on plants (other than fruit and seeds) and wood (including wood which has not kept its natural round surface) of Acer saccharum , originating in the USA and Canada. The fungus is native to eastern North America and causes symptoms mainly on A. saccharum , but also on Liriodendron tulipifera . The fungus is also reported as a saprotroph on various hardwood species. The pest could enter the EU via wood, plants for planting and cut branches. Hosts and favourable climatic conditions are widespread in the EU. The pest would be able to spread following establishment through sap-feeding insects, root grafts and movement of infected wood and plants for planting. The pest introduction could have impacts on Acer spp. and L. tulipifera trees in the EU, by causing wilting, yellowing and the development of small leaves, as well as dieback of branches and, eventually, the death of trees. Avoiding damaging trees (as wounding facilitates infection of the fungus) and maintaining healthy trees (as tree stress facilitates the disease) are available measures to reduce impacts. The main knowledge gaps concern (i) the biology and epidemiology of the pathogen (including the saprotrophic form), (ii) the role of insect vectors for entry and spread, and (iii) the susceptibility of Acer spp. either native to or more recently established in Europe. The criteria assessed by the Panel for consideration as potential quarantine pest are met. For regulated non-quarantine pests, the criterion on the pest presence in the EU is not met., (© 2017 European Food Safety Authority. EFSA Journal published by John Wiley and Sons Ltd on behalf of European Food Safety Authority.)

The Panel on Plant health performed a pest categorisation of the larch web-spinning sawfly Cephalcia lariciphila (Hymenoptera: Pamphiliidae) for the EU. The insect has been reported in 11 EU Member States (MSs). It is a quarantine pest listed in Annex IIB of Council Directive 2000/29/EC. Protected zones are in place in Ireland and the UK (Northern Ireland, Isle of Man and Jersey). C. lariciphila can feed on all species of the genus Larix . There have been reported outbreaks in the Czech Republic, Germany, the Netherlands and the UK (England and Wales) in plantations of European larch ( Larix decidua ) and Japanese larch ( Larix kaempferi = Larix leptolepis ). C. lariciphila is absent in the protected zones. The pest can enter the protected zones by human-assisted spread or by natural spread from EU areas where the pest is present. Plants for planting are considered the most important pathway for the pest. The pest can establish in the protected zones because the climatic conditions are similar to those of the 11 MSs where C. lariciphila is established, and the pest's main host plants are present. The prepupae overwinter in the litter, the adults emerge during May-June, and each female lays 30-40 eggs in slits in mature needles. The larvae feed on the needles through four instars. There is one generation per year; some of the prepupae undergo prolonged diapause for more than 1 year. The impact where the pest occurs is mainly related to the loss of tree growth following defoliation, while tree mortality was locally observed only after repeated defoliation. However, impact is likely to be mitigated by local biological control agents. All criteria assessed by EFSA above for consideration as a potential protected zone quarantine pest and as a potential regulated non-quarantine pest were met., (© 2017 European Food Safety Authority. EFSA Journal published by John Wiley and Sons Ltd on behalf of European Food Safety Authority.)

Following a request from the European Commission, the EFSA Panel on Plant Health (PLH) performed a pest categorisation of Stegophora ulmea , a well-defined and distinguishable fungal species of the family Sydowiellaceae. S. ulmea causes a tree disease known as black spot of elm ( Ulmus spp.). The pathogen is reported from North America (native range) and Asia (Far-East Russia and China), but not from the EU. S. ulmea is regulated in Council Directive 2000/29/EC (Annex IIAI) as a harmful organism whose introduction into the EU is banned on plants of Ulmus L. and Zelkova L., intended for planting, other than seeds. The pathogen has been occasionally intercepted on imported bonsai plants (and then destroyed) in the Netherlands and the UK. It could enter the EU and spread within it via plants for planting (including bonsai) and cut branches. Hosts and favourable climatic conditions are common in the EU. The European native elm species Ulmus glabra and Ulmus laevis were found to be more susceptible to the disease than North American elm species, but information is lacking on Ulmus minor . The disease is rarely fatal, but S. ulmea can cause considerable damage, particularly in wet summers. Reduction of inoculum by the removal of leaf debris and avoiding overhead watering in nurseries can reduce the risk of spread of the pathogen. The main knowledge gaps concern (i) the distribution of the pest in Asian countries, (ii) the relative role of the means of entry/spread and (iii) the potential consequences in mature tree plantations and native woodland. The criteria assessed by the Panel for consideration as potential quarantine pest are met. For regulated non-quarantine pests, the criterion on the pest presence in the EU is not met., (© 2017 European Food Safety Authority. EFSA Journal published by John Wiley and Sons Ltd on behalf of European Food Safety Authority.)

The Panel on Plant Health performed a pest categorisation of Xiphinema californicum (Nematoda: Longidoridae) for the EU. The nematode is a well-defined taxon belonging to a group of morphologically similar species called Xiphinema americanum sensu lato. The nematode was described from the USA and is present in some North and South American countries. The nematode is not present in the EU and is regulated by Council Directive 2000/29/EC, listed in Annex I A I as X. californicum Lamberti and Bleve-Zacheo. It is a polyphagous pest found in soil associated with a number of plant species. As a migratory ectoparasitic species, it punctures the cells of plant roots. X. californicum is in principle able to cause direct damage to plants, but its main damage is caused by vectoring the American nepoviruses: Tobacco ringspot virus (TRSV), Tomato ringspot virus (ToRSV) and Cherry rasp leaf virus (CRLV). Soil is a potential pathway for this nematode for entry into the EU. Moist soil, such as soil attached to plants for planting, increases survival of the nematode. The viruses may persist over prolonged periods inside the nematode and viruliferous nematodes may introduce American nepoviruses. Climatic conditions in the EU are similar to those found in the areas where the pest is currently present. Hosts of the nematode (and of associated viruses) are, e.g. grapes, apples and plums, which are also widely cultivated in the EU. The nematode only moves short distances (around 1 m) but may be spread with soil moving activities. Measures are available to inhibit entry via soil as such. Entry of the nematode with soil attached to plants for planting that are not regulated is possible. X. californicum does satisfy all the criteria that are within the remit of EFSA to assess to be regarded as a Union quarantine pest., (© 2017 European Food Safety Authority. EFSA Journal published by John Wiley and Sons Ltd on behalf of European Food Safety Authority.)

The Panel on Plant Health performed a pest categorisation of Longidorus diadecturus (Nematoda: Longidoridae) for the EU. The nematode is a well-defined taxon and was described from Ontario, Canada and later reported from some states in the USA. The nematode is not present in the EU. It is regulated by Council Directive 2000/29/EC, listed in Annex I A I as L. diadecturus Eveleigh and Allen. It is a migratory ectoparasitic nematode species puncturing cells of plant roots thereby able to transmit the nepovirus Peach rosette mosaic virus (PRMV). The pest is found in soil associated with plant species belonging to different families. L. diadecturus is able to cause direct damage to plants, but its main damage is caused by vectoring PRMV. Soil is a potential pathway for this nematode for entry into the EU. The nematode is able to survive adverse conditions, but the virus may not persist inside the nematode for extended periods. Climatic conditions in the EU are similar to those found in the countries where the pest is currently present. Hosts of the nematode (and the associated virus) are, e.g. peaches and grapes; those crops are also widely cultivated in the EU. The nematode only moves short distances (around 1 m) but may be spread with soil moving activities. Measures are available to inhibit entry via soil as such. Entry of the nematode with soil attached to plants for planting that are not regulated is possible. L. diadecturus does satisfy all the criteria that are within the remit of EFSA to assess to be regarded as a potential Union quarantine pest., (© 2017 European Food Safety Authority. EFSA Journal published by John Wiley and Sons Ltd on behalf of European Food Safety Authority.)

The EFSA Panel on Plant Health performed a pest categorisation of the Citrus leprosis viruses for the EU territory and identified five distinct viruses, Citrus leprosis virus C (CiLV-C), Citrus leprosis virus C2 (CiLV-C2), Hibiscus green spot virus 2 (HGSV-2), the Citrus strain of Orchid fleck virus (OFV) and Citrus leprosis virus N sensu novo (CiLV-N) as causing this severe disease, most significantly in sweet orange and mandarin. These viruses have in common that they do not cause systemic infections in their hosts and that they all are transmitted by Brevipalpus spp. mites (likely but not confirmed for HGSV-2). Mites represent the most important means of virus spread, while plants for planting of Citrus are only considered of minor significance. These well characterised viruses occur in South and Central America. Leprosis is currently regulated in directive 2000/29 EC and, together with its associated viruses, has never been recorded in the EU. All five viruses have the potential to enter into, establish in and spread within the EU territory, with plants for planting of non-regulated hosts, fruits of Citrus and hitch-hiking of viruliferous mites identified as the most significant pathways. Given the severity of the leprosis disease, the introduction and spread of the various viruses would have negative consequences on the EU citrus industry, the magnitude of which is difficult to evaluate given the uncertainties affecting the Brevipalpus spp. vectors (identity, distribution, density, transmission specificity and efficiency). Overall, leprosis and its five associated viruses meet all the criteria evaluated by EFSA to qualify as Union quarantine pests, but do not fulfil those of being present in the EU or of plants for planting being the main spread mechanism to qualify as Union regulated non-quarantine pests. The main uncertainties affecting this categorisation concern the Brevipalpus spp. mite vectors., (© 2017 European Food Safety Authority. EFSA Journal published by John Wiley and Sons Ltd on behalf of European Food Safety Authority.)

The Panel on Plant Health performed a pest categorisation of the Diprionid sawfly, Gilpinia hercyniae Hartig (Hymenoptera: Diprionidae), for the EU. G. hercyniae is a well-defined and distinguishable species, native to Europe but also present in North America, Japan, Mongolia, Korea and Pakistan, and recognised as a pest of spruce ( Picea spp.). The pest is distributed in 19 Member States (MSs) of the EU. It is a quarantine pest listed in Annex IIB of Council Directive 2000/29/EC. Protected zones are in place in Greece, Ireland and the United Kingdom (Northern Ireland, Isle of Man and Jersey). Plants for planting of Picea spp. and soil and litter associated with Picea spp. are considered as pathways for this pest, which is also able to disperse by flight. The prepupae overwinter inside cocoons in the litter or in the foliage. In spring, the adults, mostly females emerge and lay 35-60 eggs per female in mature needles. The larvae feed on the mature needles through five instars. There are 1-3 generations per year; some of the prepupae undergo prolonged diapause for more than 1 year. The impact on Picea abies (= excelsa ) is minimal, because only the needles of the previous years are attacked; however, outbreaks have occurred on non-native spruce, Picea glauca and Picea sitchensis . The pest is controlled everywhere by natural enemies, including nuclear polyedrosis viruses. The insects spread on plants for planting of Picea spp., with soil and litter associated with Picea spp., and by flight. The EU protected zones have a similar climate and similar host plants as the MS where G. hercyniae is established. All criteria assessed by EFSA for consideration as potential protected zone quarantine pest and as a potential regulated non-quarantine pest were met., (© 2017 European Food Safety Authority. EFSA Journal published by John Wiley and Sons Ltd on behalf of European Food Safety Authority.)

The European Commission requested EFSA to conduct a pest categorisation of Anthonomus grandis (Coleoptera: Curculionidae), an oligophagous pest weevil feeding on Malvaceae, including Gossypium spp., Hampea spp., Cienfuegosia spp. and Hibiscus pernambucensis . Marginal reproduction has also been observed on the ornamental Hibiscus syriacus . A. grandis is a taxonomic entity with reliable methods available for identification. It is regulated in the EU by Council Directive 2000/29/EC where it is listed in Annex IIB as a harmful organism whose introduction into EU Protected Zones (PZ) (Greece and the Spanish Communities of Andalusia, Catalonia, Extremadura, Murcia and Valencia) is regulated. A. grandis is native to tropical regions of Mesoamerica and has spread to other cotton-growing areas in the Americas, from the USA to Argentina, causing significant damage to this crop. An eradication programme is in progress in the USA and has been successful in 16 previously infested states. In the EU, phytosanitary measures are in place in order to limit entry via traded commodities. Cotton seeds and fruit, as well as unginned cotton are currently regulated for the PZ but remain a potential pathway. Furthermore, ornamental Malvaceae (e.g. Hibiscus spp.) originating in infested areas may provide additional pathways. The EFSA Plant Health Panel concludes that A. grandis could establish and spread in the cotton-growing areas of southern EU. Considering the criteria within the remit of EFSA to assess the status as a potential Union quarantine pest (QP), as a potential protected zone quarantine pest (PZQP), or as a potential regulated non-quarantine pest (RNQP), A. grandis satisfies with no uncertainties the criteria to be regarded as a Union QP. However, it does not meet the criterion of occurrence in the EU territory (for PZQP) plus that of plants for planting being the principal means of spread (for RNQP)., (© 2017 European Food Safety Authority. EFSA Journal published by John Wiley and Sons Ltd on behalf of European Food Safety Authority.)

The Panel on Plant Health performed a pest categorisation of the strawberry blossom weevil, Anthonomus bisignifer Schenkling, (Coleoptera: Curculionidae), for the EU. Anthonomus bisignifer is a well-defined and distinguishable species, recognised as an occasional pest of strawberry ( Fragaria ) fruit production in Japan where it is also feeds on Rubus and Rosa spp. Adults clip developing buds, preventing fruit development and reducing yield. Losses are variable and are likely to depend on the cultivars attacked. Severe damage to Fragaria spp. has been reported but is rare. Flowers of ornamental garden Rosa spp. are more commonly damaged. Anthonomus bisignifer is not known to occur in the EU. A. bisignifer is listed in Annex IIAI of Council Directive 2000/29/EC. Host plants for planting could provide a pathway although only a few non-EU countries can export Fragaria plants for planting to the EU and A. bisignifer is not known to occur in any of them. However, Rubus and Rosa plants for planting could provide a potential pathway to introduce A. bisignifer . Considering climatic similarities of the region where A. bisignifer occurs and where hosts occur in the EU, A. bisignifer has the potential to establish within the EU. There would be one generation per year, as in Japan. Impacts could be expected on field grown and protected Fragaria, field grown Rubus and garden Rosa spp. There is uncertainty regarding which other hosts exist within Rosaceae, hence impacts could potentially be seen on other species too. Phytosanitary measures are available to reduce the likelihood of introduction of A. bisignifer . All criteria assessed by EFSA for consideration as a potential Union quarantine pest are met. As A. bisignifer is not known to occur in the EU, this criterion assessed by EFSA to consider it as a Union regulated non-quarantine pest is not met., (© 2017 European Food Safety Authority. EFSA Journal published by John Wiley and Sons Ltd on behalf of European Food Safety Authority.)

The EFSA Panel on Plant Health performed a pest categorisation of naturally-spreading psorosis of citrus for the European Union. Naturally-spreading psorosis is poorly defined, because the status of both the disease and its causal agent(s) is uncertain. However, Citrus psorosis virus (CPsV) is a well- characterised Ophiovirus that is systematically associated with the psorosis disease and therefore considered to be its causal agent. Efficient diagnostics are available for CPsV. It is present in at least three EU MS. Naturally-spreading psorosis is currently regulated by Directive 2000/29/EC, while CPsV is not explicitly mentioned in this Directive. CPsV has the potential to enter, establish and spread in the EU territory. However, the main pathway for entry is closed by the existing legislation so that entry is only possible through minor alternative pathways. Plants for planting are the major means of spread while there are uncertainties on the existence and efficiency of a natural spread mechanism. CPsV introduction and spread in the EU would have negative consequences on the EU citrus industry. Of the criteria evaluated by EFSA to qualify as a Union quarantine pest or as a Union regulated non-quarantine pest (RNQP), Naturally-spreading psorosis does not meet the criterion of being a well characterised pest or disease. As it is not explicitly mentioned in the legislation, it is unclear whether CPsV meets the criterion of being currently regulated or under official control. It meets, however, all the RNQP criteria. The key uncertainties of this categorisation concern: (1) the causal role of CPsV in the psorosis disease as well as elements of its biology and epidemiology, (2) the exact nature of the Naturally-spreading psorosis syndrome and the identity of its causal agent and, consequently, (3) whether CPsV should be considered as being covered by the current legislation., (© 2017 European Food Safety Authority. EFSA Journal published by John Wiley and Sons Ltd on behalf of European Food Safety Authority.)