Pest categorisation of Retithrips syriacus

Area of Science:

• Plant Health
• Entomology
• Pest Risk Assessment

Background:

• Retithrips syriacus (black vine thrips) is a polyphagous pest identified as a potential threat to EU agriculture.
• This species is not currently listed under EU Commission Implementing Regulation 2019/2072, necessitating a thorough risk assessment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To conduct a pest categorisation of Retithrips syriacus for the EU territory.
• To evaluate the potential for R. syriacus to establish and cause economic damage within the EU.

Main Methods:

• Review of R. syriacus biology, distribution, and host range.
• Assessment of potential entry pathways into the EU.
• Evaluation of climatic suitability and establishment potential in the EU.

Main Results:

• R. syriacus has a wide host range, including economically important EU crops like apple, grapevine, and citrus.
• The pest occurs in climates similar to those found in parts of the EU and can complete multiple generations annually.
• Potential entry pathways include plants for planting, cut flowers, and fruits; establishment is likely given suitable hosts and climate.

Conclusions:

• Retithrips syriacus meets the criteria for consideration as a potential Union quarantine pest.
• Establishment of R. syriacus in the EU could lead to substantial yield and quality reductions in fruit production.
• The pest is not currently known to be present in the EU, with no reported interceptions.