Pest categorisation of Spodoptera litura.
EFSA Journal. European Food Safety Authority
|July 7, 2020
Summary
The Spodoptera litura, a destructive agricultural pest from Asia, poses a potential quarantine risk to the EU due to its polyphagous nature and ability to survive in temperate climates. Eradication efforts in EU greenhouses have been successful.
Area of Science:
- Entomology
- Plant Pathology
- Pest Risk Assessment
Background:
- Spodoptera litura (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) is a highly polyphagous pest native to South and East Asia and Oceania.
- It thrives in tropical and subtropical climates but can extend its range into cooler temperate regions during summer.
- This pest causes significant crop losses in the Asia-Pacific region and has been intercepted multiple times within the EU.
Purpose of the Study:
- To conduct a pest categorisation of Spodoptera litura for the European Union (EU).
- To assess its potential as a Union quarantine pest or a Union regulated non-quarantine pest.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature and data on Spodoptera litura's distribution, host range, and impact.
- Assessment of climatic suitability for establishment within the EU.
- Evaluation against EU plant health regulations and criteria for quarantine pests.
Main Results:
- Spodoptera litura is limited by winter temperatures, with only small areas of the EU potentially suitable for outdoor establishment.
- The pest has been intercepted on various plants entering the EU and outbreaks in glasshouses have been successfully eradicated.
- It meets the criteria for assessment as a potential Union quarantine pest.
Conclusions:
- Spodoptera litura poses a potential quarantine risk to the EU, necessitating phytosanitary measures for prevention.
- While not currently meeting criteria for a regulated non-quarantine pest, its interceptions and eradication in glasshouses highlight its invasive potential.
