Pest categorisation of Scirtothrips aurantii

Area of Science:

• Plant Health
• Entomology
• Pest Risk Analysis

Background:

• Scirtothrips aurantii, the South African citrus thrips, is a recognized pest of citrus and mangoes in South Africa, infesting over 70 plant species.
• This thrips exclusively feeds on young, actively growing foliage and fruit, posing a threat to agricultural production.
• S. aurantii is not currently present in the European Union (EU) but is listed as a harmful organism under EU legislation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To perform a pest categorization of Scirtothrips aurantii for the European Union (EU).
• To assess the potential for establishment and impact of S. aurantii within the EU.
• To evaluate S. aurantii's status as a potential Union quarantine pest (QP) or regulated non-quarantine pest (RNQP).

Main Methods:

• Review of existing data on the pest's biology, host range, and geographical distribution.
• Analysis of potential introduction pathways, including international trade of plants for planting and cut flowers.
• Assessment of climatic suitability and potential for establishment in EU regions, considering thermal biology and host availability.

Main Results:

• International trade presents potential pathways for S. aurantii entry into the EU, with interceptions noted on Eustoma grandiflorum cut flowers.
• Despite import restrictions on citrus plants and measures for other plants, the pest has the potential to establish in the EU, especially in citrus-growing areas.
• S. aurantii could establish year-round in Mediterranean climates, leading to crop losses in citrus, particularly oranges.

Conclusions:

• Scirtothrips aurantii meets the criteria for consideration as a potential Union quarantine pest (QP) for the EU.
• Phytosanitary measures are crucial to prevent the introduction and establishment of this invasive pest.
• The pest's characteristics and potential impact warrant strict regulatory attention to protect EU plant health.