Pest categorisation of Scaphoideus luteolus

Area of Science:

• Plant Health
• Entomology
• Phytopathology

Background:

• Scaphoideus luteolus is an insect pest native to the eastern USA.
• It primarily infests elm species (Ulmus spp.) but also Willow (Salix spp.) and Poplar (Populus spp.).
• This insect is the sole known vector of Candidatus Phytoplasma ulmi (CPu), a pathogen causing significant damage to elm trees.

Purpose of the Study:

• To conduct a pest categorization of Scaphoideus luteolus for the Panel on Plant Health.
• To assess the risk posed by Scaphoideus luteolus to the European Union (EU).
• To evaluate Scaphoideus luteolus against criteria for potential Union quarantine and regulated non-quarantine pests.

Main Methods:

• Pest categorization based on established EFSA criteria.
• Review of Scaphoideus luteolus biology, host range, and vector capabilities.
• Analysis of introduction pathways and establishment potential in the EU.

Main Results:

• Scaphoideus luteolus is present only in the eastern USA.
• It vectors Candidatus Phytoplasma ulmi (CPu), which severely damages native elms in North America and affects European elms.
• The pest overwinters as eggs, with nymphal and adult stages capable of transmitting CPu throughout the summer.
• Introduction pathways include cut branches and plants for planting, which are not fully regulated for key hosts.
• EU establishment is plausible due to widespread elm populations and similar climatic conditions.

Conclusions:

• Scaphoideus luteolus meets all criteria to be considered a potential Union quarantine pest.
• The species is absent from the EU, thus not meeting criteria for a regulated non-quarantine pest.
• Urgent regulatory measures are recommended to prevent the introduction and establishment of Scaphoideus luteolus in the EU.