Pest categorisation of Entoleuca mammata

Area of Science:

• Plant Pathology
• Mycology
• Forest Entomology
• Risk Assessment

Background:

• Entoleuca mammata, formerly Hypoxylon mammatum, is a North American fungus causing Hypoxylon canker in poplars.
• The pathogen is reported in 16 EU Member States, affecting widespread poplar species like Populus tremula, Populus nigra, and hybrid poplars.
• E. mammata is designated a protected zone (PZ) quarantine pest for Ireland and the UK (Northern Ireland).

Purpose of the Study:

• To perform a pest categorization of Entoleuca mammata for the European Commission.
• To assess the criteria for E. mammata as a potential protected zone quarantine pest.
• To evaluate the risks associated with E. mammata in the EU.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing scientific literature and data on Entoleuca mammata.
• Assessment of the pathogen's distribution, hosts, and pathways of spread within the EU.
• Evaluation of economic impact and uncertainties regarding susceptibility of cultivated poplars.

Main Results:

• Entoleuca mammata has been reported in 16 EU Member States, with restricted distribution in most.
• Main pathways of spread include wind-blown ascospores, plants for planting, and wood with bark.
• While causing significant damage in the USA, E. mammata is not currently of major economic importance in affected EU Member States.

Conclusions:

• Entoleuca mammata meets the criteria for consideration as a potential protected zone quarantine pest.
• Uncertainties remain regarding its EU distribution, susceptibility of cultivated hybrid poplars, and potential future damage.
• Risk reduction strategies include site selection, wound avoidance, and wood debarking.