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Following a request from the European Commission, the EFSA Plant Health Panel analysed a dossier submitted by the Italian Authorities to reach a conclusion on the status of Vitis spp., Citrus spp. and Quercus ilex as hosts for Xylella fastidiosa strain CoDi RO. The Panel acknowledges the difficulty to provide compelling evidence for non-susceptibility of a particular plant species. In the case of Vitis spp., the Panel considers that convergent lines of evidence provide sufficient demonstration that at least the tested varieties (Cabernet Sauvignon, Negroamaro and Primitivo) do not support a systemic infection by the CoDi RO strain. The extension of this conclusion to other grapevine varieties and to Vitis species other than Vitis vinifera is associated with significant uncertainties. The Panel therefore considers it premature to conclude that all Vitis species are unable to support a CoDi RO systemic infection. In addition, although the local accumulation detected in the mechanical inoculation experiments may represent an artefact, the Panel considers it premature to conclude that the tested grapevine varieties are not able to support local multiplication of the CoDi RO strain. Further extension of this conclusion to other grapevine varieties and to non- vinifera species is also premature. For Citrus spp., the data available provide coherent and converging lines of evidence suggesting that sweet orange may be a non-systemic host of strain CoDi RO. However, given the limited scope of the data available on other species, the Panel considers it premature to reach a general conclusion for all Citrus species. The potential epidemiological consequences of non-systemic infections remain to be fully evaluated. In the case of Quercus ilex, the Panel concludes that the limited data available provides some evidence suggesting that it may not be a systemic host of the CoDi RO strain, but that it would be premature to consider this tentative conclusion as firmly established. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Panel on Plant Health performed a pest categorisation of the gall midge Aschistonyx eppoi Inouye () (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. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Panel on Plant Health performed a pest categorisation of Puccinia pittieriana, the causal agent of common rust of potato, for the EU. The pathogen is a single taxonomic entity and reliable methods exist for its detection and identification. Cultivated potato (Solanum tuberosum) and tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) are the main hosts of P. pittieriana. Some wild solanaceous plants can also be affected by the pathogen. P. pittieriana is present in countries of South and Central America (most commonly at elevations of 3,000-4,000 m), but uncertainty exists about its presence in Bolivia and Paraguay. The pathogen is not known to occur in the EU and is listed in Annex IIAI of Directive 2000/29/EC. P. pittieriana could potentially enter the EU mainly on living host plants and infested soil attached to potato tubers originated in infested areas. Potato and tomato crops are widely distributed in the EU and the prevailing climatic conditions, at least in part of the risk assessment area, are suitable for the establishment and spread of the pathogen. There is uncertainty on the yield/quality losses currently caused by the pathogen in the infested areas. Nevertheless, it is expected that the introduction and spread of P. pittieriana in the EU could impact potato and tomato production, although the magnitude is unknown. Cultural practices and chemical measures may reduce the inoculum sources but they cannot eliminate the pathogen. Phytosanitary measures are available to mitigate the risk of introduction and spread of the pathogen in the EU. P. pittieriana meets all the criteria assessed by EFSA for consideration as a potential Union quarantine pest. As P. pittieriana 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. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Panel on Plant Health performed a pest categorisation of the six-toothed bark beetle, Ips sexdentatus (Börner) (Coleoptera: Curculionidae, Scolytinae), for the EU. I. sexdentatus is a well-defined and distinguishable species, native to Eurasia and recognised mainly as a pest of pine (Pinus spp., in the pest's whole range) and spruce (mainly Picea orientalis in Turkey and Georgia). It also might occasionally attack Larix spp. and Abies spp. It is distributed throughout the EU (24 Member States). It is a protected zone quarantine pest in Ireland, Cyprus and the United Kingdom (Northern Ireland, Isle of Man), listed in Annex IIB of Council Directive 2000/29/EC. Wood, wood products, bark and wood packaging material are considered as pathways for this pest, which is also able to disperse by flight over tens of kilometres. The adults normally establish on fallen or weakened trees (e.g. after a fire or a drought) and can also massattack healthy trees. The males produce aggregation pheromones that attract conspecifics of both sexes. The insects also inoculate pathogenic fungi to their hosts. There are one to five generations per year. The wide current geographical range of I. sexdentatus suggests that it is able to establish anywhere in the EU where its hosts are present. Sanitary thinning or clear-felling are the major control methods. Pheromone mass-trapping is also locally implemented. Quarantine measures are implemented to prevent entry into the protected zones. All criteria for consideration as potential protected zone quarantine pest are met. The criteria for considering I. sexdentatus as a potential regulated non-quarantine pest are not met since plants for planting are not viewed as a pathway. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Panel on Plant Health performed a pest categorisation of the large larch bark beetle, Ips cembrae (Heer) (Coleoptera: Curculionidae, Scolytinae), for the EU. I. cembrae is a well-defined and distinguishable species, native to Europe and recognised mainly as a pest of larch (Larix spp.) and occasionally of pine (Pinus spp.) and spruce (Picea spp.). It is distributed in 16 Member States of the EU and listed in Annex IIB of Council Directive 2000/29/EC. Protected zones are in place in Greece, Ireland and the United Kingdom (Northern Ireland and Isle of Man). Wood, wood products, bark and wood packaging material are considered as pathways for this pest, which is also able to disperse by flight. The insects normally establish on fallen or weakened trees but, when their populations are high, can also mass-attack healthy trees. The males produce aggregation pheromones that attract conspecifics of both sexes. The insects also inoculate pathogenic fungi to their hosts. There are one to two generations per year. Before establishing their broods, the young adults need to proceed to maturation feeding either within the bark of the tree where they developed or in 2-18 years old twigs. I. cembrae has been expanding its geographical range in Europe during the second half of the 20th century. Sanitary thinning or clear felling is the major control methods. Quarantine measures are implemented to prevent entry in the protected zones. All criteria for consideration as potential protected zone quarantine pest are met. The criteria for considering I. cembrae as a potential regulated non-quarantine pest are not met since plants for planting are not viewed as a major pathway. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Panel on Plant Health performed a pest categorisation of the spider mite Oligonychus perditus Pritchard and Baker (1955) (Acari, Tetranychidae), for the EU. O. perditus is a well-defined and distinguishable species, native to China, Japan, Korea and Taiwan, and recognised mainly as a pest of Juniperus spp., Chamaecyparis spp. and Platycladus spp. It is absent from the EU and is listed in Annex IIAI of Directive 2000/29/EC. Its host plants, Juniperus spp. and Chamaecyparis spp., are also listed in Annex III of Directive 2000/29/EC. Plants for planting, cut flowers and branches are considered as pathways for this pest, which is also able to disperse naturally with the wind, over rather short distances. O. perditus has repeatedly been intercepted in the EU but does not appear to have established, although a small population of O. perditus survived 8 years on a single imported plant in the Netherlands. As the host range of O. perditus coincides with that of the closely related cosmopolitan Oligonychus ununguis, which occurs in the EU, it is quite likely that the presence of O. perditus in the EU would cause little additional damage. Cultural control (sanitation and destruction of infested material) and chemical control (acaricides, e.g. abamectin) are the major control methods. All criteria assessed by EFSA for consideration as a potential quarantine pest are met, though there are some uncertainties regarding impacts. The species is presently absent from the EU, and thus, the criteria for consideration as a potential regulated non-quarantine pest are not met. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Following a request from the European Commission, the EFSA Plant Health (PLH) Panel performed a pest categorisation of Gremmeniella abietina, a well-defined species and distinguishable fungus of the family Godroniaceae. The species G. abietina includes several varieties, races and biotypes that are found in different geographical locations, on different hosts and that vary in aggressiveness. The pathogen causes diseases on Pinus species and other conifers such as Abies spp., Picea spp., Larix spp. and Pseudotsuga spp. known as Scleroderris canker in North America and Brunchorstia dieback in Europe. G. abietina has been reported from 19 EU Member States, without apparent ecoclimatic factors limiting establishment. The pathogen is a protected zone (PZ) quarantine pest (Annex IIB) for Ireland and the UK (Northern Ireland). The main European hosts are widespread throughout most of the EU and have been frequently planted in the PZ. The main means of spread are wind-blown ascospores, rain-splashed conidia, plants for planting and traded Christmas trees. Given that G. abietina is most damaging to species that are grown towards the limit of their range, impacts can be expected in the PZ, should the pathogen be introduced there. Risk reduction options include selection of disease-free planting material, nursery inspections, selection of planting sites at some distance from infested plantations, appropriate spacing between plants and thinning. The main uncertainties concern the indeterminate endophytic stage of the fungus, the pathogen distribution and the future taxonomic status of G. abietina, given its intraspecific diversity. All the criteria assessed by the Panel for consideration as potential PZ quarantine pest are met. The criterion of plants for planting being the main pathway for spread for regulated non-quarantine pests is not met: plants for planting are only one of the means of spread of the pathogen. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Panel on Plant Health performed a pest categorisation of Venturia nashicola, the causal agent of Asian pear scab, for the European Union (EU). The pathogen is a well-defined, distinguishable fungal species affecting Pyrus pyrifolia var. culta, P. ussuriensis and P. bretschneideri in Asian countries. P. communis (European pear) is not a host of V. nashicola, but the host status of other Pyrus species is unclear. V. nashicola is not known to occur in the EU. It is listed in Annex IIAI of Directive 2000/29/EC. The pathogen could potentially enter the EU on host plants for planting and fruit originated in infested countries. There are no climatic factors limiting the potential establishment and spread of the pathogen in the EU, as its epidemiology is similar to those of Venturia inaequalis (apple scab) and Venturia pyrina (European pear scab), which are well-established in the EU. The hosts are present in the EU, but no data were found on their abundance and distribution. In the infested areas, V. nashicola causes premature leaf and fruit drop and fruit distortion resulting in considerable yield/quality losses. The introduction of the pathogen into the EU could cause yield/quality losses and environmental consequences because of the additional fungicide sprays for disease control. Cultural practices and chemical measures applied in the infested areas reduce the inoculum sources but they cannot eliminate the pathogen. Phytosanitary measures are available to mitigate the risk of introduction and spread of the pathogen in the EU. All criteria assessed by EFSA for consideration as a potential Union quarantine pest are met. As V. nashicola 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. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Panel on Plant Health performed a pest categorisation of the small spruce bark beetle, Ips amitinus (Eichhoff) (Coleoptera: Curculionidae, Scolytinae), for the EU. I. amitinus is a well‐defined and distinguishable species, native to Europe and attacking mainly spruce (Picea spp.) and pine (Pinus spp.) and sporadically fir (Abies spp.) and larch (Larix spp.). It is distributed in 16 EU Member States and is locally spreading in some. The pest is listed in Annex IIB of Council Directive 2000/29/EC. Protected zones are in place in Ireland, Greece and the United Kingdom. Wood, wood products, bark and wood packaging material are considered as pathways for this pest, which is also able to disperse by flight over tens of kilometres. The insects normally establish on fallen or weakened trees (e.g. after a fire or a drought) but can also occasionally mass‐attack healthy trees, when population densities are high. The males produce pheromones that attract conspecifics of both sexes. Each male attracts one to seven females to establish a brood system; each female produces 1–60 offspring. The insects also inoculate their hosts with pathogenic fungi. There are one or two generations per year. The wide current geographic range of I. amitinus suggests that it is able to establish in most areas in the EU, including the protected zones, where its hosts are present. The damage due to I. amitinus is limited and usually does not require control. Sanitary thinning or clear‐felling is the usual control methods, when necessary. Quarantine measures are implemented to prevent entry in protected zones. All criteria for consideration as a potential protected zone quarantine pest are met. The criteria for considering I. amitinus as a potential regulated non‐quarantine pest are not met since plants for planting are not viewed as a pathway. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Panel on Plant Health performed a pest categorisation of the double‐spined bark beetle, Ips duplicatus (Sahlberg, 1836) (Coleoptera: Curculionidae, Scolytinae), for the EU. I. duplicatus is a well‐defined and distinguishable species, native to Europe and attacking mainly spruce (Picea spp.) but also observed on pine (Pinus spp.) and larch (Larix spp.). It is distributed in 15 EU Member States and is locally spreading in some of them. I. duplicatus is listed in Annex IIB of Council Directive 2000/29/EC. Protected zones are in place in Ireland, Greece and the United Kingdom. Wood, wood products, bark, and wood packaging material are considered as pathways for this pest, which is also able to disperse by flight. The insects mostly attacks scattered individual standing trees in the stands, often when the trees are weakened by dry conditions or by pathogens, and they very rarely infest fallen or cut logs. The males produce pheromones that attract conspecifics of both sexes. Each male attracts 1–5 females and they establish a brood system; each female produces 1–60 offspring. The insects also inoculate their hosts with pathogenic fungi. There are one to three generations per year. The current geographic range of I. duplicatus suggests that it is able to establish in most of the EU, including the protected zones, where its hosts are present. Sanitary thinning or clear‐felling and pheromone trapping are the usual control methods. All criteria for consideration as potential protected zone quarantine pest are met. The criteria for considering I. duplicatus as a potential regulated non‐quarantine pest are not met since plants for planting are not viewed as a pathway. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Panel on Plant Health performed a pest categorisation of Hishimonus phycitis (Hemiptera: Cicadellidae) for the EU. H. phycitis is a well‐defined species, occurring in tropical and subtropical Asian countries from Iran to Malaysia. H. phycitis is polyphagous. Hosts of particular relevance to the EU include Citrus spp. and Solanum melongena. While harmful in its own right as a leafhopper extracting host nutrients through feeding, it is regarded in the Middle East more significantly as a vector of Witches' broom disease of lime phytoplasma, which limits production of Citrus aurantifolia, and in India as a vector of brinjal little‐leaf phytoplasma impacting S. melongena yields. H. phycitis is currently regulated by Council Directive 2000/29/EC, listed in Annex II/AI as Hishomonus phycitis (sic). Eggs planted on host plants for planting could provide a pathway for entry into the EU. The EU has eco‐climatic conditions that are also found in countries where H. phycitis occurs although it is unknown whether H. phycitis occurs in those areas. There is therefore considerable uncertainty around EU establishment. Any establishment is likely to be limited to the warmest areas around the Mediterranean. As a free‐living organism with adults capable of flight, spread within the EU would be possible but confined to the limited area where establishment could occur. Measures are available to inhibit entry via traded commodities (e.g. prohibition on the introduction of Citrus plants for planting; sourcing other hosts from pest free areas). H. phycitis does satisfy all of the criteria that are within the remit of EFSA to assess to be regarded as a Union quarantine pest. It is uncertain if eggs of H. phycitis would carry phytoplasmas into the EU as transovarial transmission from infected females to eggs has not been demonstrated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The EFSA Panel on Plant Health performed a pest categorisation of Citrus tatter leaf virus (CTLV) for the EU territory. This virus is the causal agent of tatter leaf and graft incompatibility in trifoliate orange (Poncirus trifoliata) and its hybrids. CTLV is now recognised as a synonym of Apple stem grooving virus (ASGV), the type Capillovirus species, for which efficient diagnostics are available. There are no known ASGV vectors. The virus is reported in citrus from many countries. In the EU, while ASGV is widely present on apple and pear, it has never been reported on citrus. Since the citrus plants for planting pathway is closed by existing legislation, the main pathway for entry is plants for planting of other host species. In the EU, the high prevalence of ASGV in non‐citrus hosts, but its absence in citrus ones suggests that interspecific host transfers are rare. However, there are high uncertainties on the importance and specifics of such host change events. No limits to the establishment of ASGV are identified and spread is likely through the vegetative propagation and trade of infected hosts. Infection of sensitive citrus rootstocks leads to stunted growth and decline of the entire plant a few years after grafting. The rootstocks that are now widely used to prevent citrus tristeza decline are the most affected. Among the criteria evaluated by EFSA for an organism to qualify as a Union quarantine pest, ASGV does not meet the criterion of being absent from or under official control in the EU territory. ASGV satisfies all the criteria evaluated by EFSA to qualify as a Union regulated non‐quarantine pest. The main uncertainties concern the possible unreported presence of ASGV in citrus in the EU, the existence and efficiency of interspecific host transfers and the existence of ASGV natural spread. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Panel on Plant Health performed a pest categorisation of non‐European isolates of Citrus tristeza virus (CTV) for the EU territory. CTV is a well characterised virus for which efficient detection assays are available. It is transmitted by vegetative multiplication of infected hosts and by aphid vectors. The most efficient one, Toxoptera citricida, has limited EU presence but another one, Aphis gossypii, is broadly distributed. CTV is reported from a range of countries outside the EU and EU isolates are present in seven of the eight citrus‐growing member states. Non‐EU isolates are not known to occur in the EU and therefore do not meet one of the criteria for being a Union regulated non‐quarantine pest. The natural host range of CTV is restricted to Citrus, Fortunella and Poncirus species. CTV non‐EU isolates are listed in Annex IIAI of Directive 2000/29/EC and the main pathway for entry, plants for planting, is closed by the existing legislation. CTV isolates may therefore only enter through minor alternative pathways. They have the potential to subsequently spread through plants for planting and through the action of aphid vectors. CTV non‐EU isolates are able to cause severe symptoms on a range of citrus crops that EU isolates do not induce. Overall, non‐EU CTV isolates meet all the criteria evaluated by EFSA to qualify as Union quarantine pests. The main knowledge gaps and uncertainties concern (1) the status of Rutaceae species other than Citrus, Fortunella and Poncirus as natural hosts for CTV; (2) the potential undetected presence of non‐EU CTV isolates in the EU and in particular the prevalence and biological properties of CTV isolates that may be present in ornamental citrus; and (3) the inability of EU CTV isolates apparently related to non‐European stem pitting (SP) isolates to cause SP in sweet orange. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The EFSA Panel on Plant Health performed a pest categorisation of Satsuma dwarf virus (SDV) for the EU territory. SDV is a well‐known pathogen and the type species of the genus Sadwavirus in the family Secoviridae. SDV is now considered to include several other formerly distinct viruses which are therefore also covered in the present opinion. Citrus species and their relatives represent the main hosts of SDV and efficient diagnostic techniques are available. SDV is listed on some of its known hosts in Annex IIAI of Directive 2000/29/EC. It is transmitted by vegetative propagation of infected hosts and presumably through the soil, but the precise mechanism or vector(s) are still unknown. SDV is present in Asia and is not known to occur in the EU. Therefore, it does not meet this criterion to qualify as a Union regulated non‐quarantine pest (RNPQ). Plants for planting represent the main pathway for the entry, but this pathway is closed by existing legislation for the main hosts (Citrus, Fortunella and Poncirus). SDV is, however, able to enter the EU on plants for plants of its unregulated rutaceous or non‐rutaceous hosts. Should it be introduced, SDV has the potential to establish and subsequently spread with plants for planting and, possibly, through its poorly characterised natural spread mechanism(s). SDV is able to cause severe symptoms, quality and yield losses on a range of citrus crops. Overall, SDV meets all the criteria evaluated by EFSA to qualify as a Union quarantine pest. The main knowledge gaps and uncertainties concern (1) the potential significance of the unregulated rutaceous and non‐rutaceous hosts for virus dissemination and epidemiology, (2) the origin and trade volume of the plants for planting of these host imported in the EU and (3) the efficiency of natural spread of SDV under EU conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The EFSA Panel on Plant Health performed a pest categorisation for the Witches' broom disease of lime (Citrus aurantifolia) phytoplasma for the EU territory. The pest has been reported in a few countries in the Middle East and is not known to occur in the EU. The disease is caused by a well‐defined phytoplasma strain in the ‘Candidatus Phytoplasma aurantifolia' species, for which efficient molecular detection assays are available. The most important known natural host is Citrus aurantifolia, which is only grown for ornamental purposes in the EU. Sweet limes, rough lemon and trifoliate orange are also naturally infected by that phytoplasma. The latter can be transmitted by grafting also to some citrus species. Other citrus species were reported to be resistant; however, their susceptibility has been assessed only by symptom observations, and the possible presence of phytoplasmas in symptomless plants cannot be ruled out. The phytoplasma is transmitted by the leafhopper Hishimonus phycitis, which is not known to occur in the EU. There is no information on the vector status of other phloem feeding insects of citrus present in the EU. The pest is listed in Annex IIAI of Directive 2000/29/EC. The main pathways for entry, plants for planting and the vector insect, are closed by existing legislation on import of citrus plants. Nevertheless, should the pest enter, it could establish and spread. In countries where Witches' broom disease of lime (WBDL) is present, it has significant impact. The main knowledge gaps concern (1) and vertical transmission of the phytoplasma to H. phycitis eggs (2) lack of information regarding susceptibility of citrus crops grown in the EU (3) status of potential insect vectors in the EU. Therefore, the WBDL phytoplasma meets the criteria assessed by EFSA for consideration as a potential Union quarantine pest. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The EFSA Panel on Plant Health performed a pest categorisation of Palm lethal yellowing phytoplasmas for the EU territory. This name is used to describe diseases that share the same succession of symptoms in palms that are caused by a number of strains of phytoplasma, for which efficient molecular detection assays are available. The pest is not known to occur in the EU and therefore does not meet one of the criteria for being a Union regulated non‐quarantine pest. For ‘Candidatus Phytoplasma palmae’, the planthopper Haplaxius crudus, which is not known to be present in the EU, is the confirmed vector, but for the other strains, the vectors are unknown. The host range of the pest is restricted to Arecaceae species, in particular coconut. The pest is regulated on all known hosts in Annex IIAI of Directive 2000/29/EC. It could potentially enter the EU via plants for planting or through infected vectors. The phytoplasmas could become established in the EU as host plants are present. It is unknown whether arthropods present in the EU could be vectors. The potential impact of the pest if introduced into the EU is difficult to assess given this uncertainty but is estimated to be limited. The main knowledge gaps concern the status of potential vector insects in the EU; the possibility for seed transmission of the phytoplasmas; the origin and volume of the trade in palm seeds and plants for planting; the host status and susceptibility of many palm species grown in the EU and the potential new assignments of phytoplasmas to this categorisation that might have associated alternate hosts. Palm lethal yellowing phytoplasmas meet the criteria assessed by EFSA for consideration as Union quarantine pest. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The EFSA Panel on Plant Health performed a pest categorisation of non‐EU isolates of Beet curly top virus (BCTV) for the European Union territory. The virus causes severe diseases in beet, tomatoes and pepper crops, occurs predominantly in warm and dry zones and is reported from many countries outside the EU in particular from western USA and Mexico. New data from complete virus genomes make BCTV a well characterised virus species of which currently 11 strains are known and for which diagnostic methods are available. BCTV has a very broad host range of more than 300 species some of which may remain symptomless. Aside from vegetative propagation of infected plants, the only mode of BCTV transmission and spread is by the leafhopper Circulifer tenellus which efficiently transmits the virus in a persistent mode and which is present in several southern EU Member States. No current reports of BCTV presence in the EU exist and because of doubts about the accuracy of older reports, BCTV likely is absent from the EU territory. BCTV can enter into the EU with viruliferous insects and with imports of plants not subject to specific EU regulation. Because both the virus and its vector have a wide host range, BCTV is expected to establish and spread in the Member States where its vector is present and to cause severe diseases in sugar beet and tomato as well as in other crops. Overall, BCTV non‐EU isolates meet all the criteria evaluated by EFSA to qualify as a Union quarantine pest and do not meet the criterion of presence in the EU to qualify as a Union regulated non‐quarantine pest (RNQP). The main uncertainties concern (1) the presence of BCTV in the EU, (2) the distribution of C. tenellus and (3) the main commodities for virus entry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Following the 2014 EFSA's Panel on Plant Health scientific opinion on the pest categorisation of the spider mite Eotetranychus lewisi, the European Commission requested the Panel to perform a pest risk assessment and evaluate the risk reduction options. A stochastic model was used to assess entry, establishment and spread and related uncertainties. In the EU, E. lewisi has only been reported to occur in Portugal (Madeira). Entry pathways assessed were strawberry plants for planting from the USA, poinsettia and raspberry plants for planting, and orange and lemon fruits from third countries. Entry is most likely via poinsettia. Under current EU phytosanitary requirements, there is around a one in ten chance that E. lewisi will establish outdoors over the next 10 years. Although unlikely, establishment would most likely occur in southern Europe where environmental conditions, temperature and host density, are most suitable. If E. lewisi did establish, pest spread is expected to be mainly human assisted, most likely the mite being transported long distances on plants for planting. Nevertheless, while remaining a regulated pest, spread would be slow and most likely confined to one NUTS 2 area after 10 years. Under a scenario with enhanced measures (pest free place of production) at origin, the Panel's assessment indicate that it is extremely unlikely that E. lewisi would establish within 10 years hence spread is also extremely unlikely. The absence of trade of host plants from Madeira to other parts of the EU could explain why E. lewisi has not spread to other EU Member States. E. lewisi is reported as reducing yield and quality of peaches and poinsettia and is regarded as a growing concern for strawberry and raspberry growers in the Americas. The Panel concludes that should E. lewisi be introduced in the EU similar impacts could be expected. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]