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Pest categorisation of Thecodiplosis japonensis.
EFSA Journal. European Food Safety Authority
|February 9, 2022
Summary
The Japanese pine gall midge (Thecodiplosis japonensis) is a significant forest pest that could establish in the EU. Its biology and potential impact on pine species warrant consideration for EU quarantine pest status.
Area of Science:
- Plant Health
- Entomology
- Forestry
Background:
- Thecodiplosis japonensis (Diptera: Cecidomyiidae) is a gall midge native to Japan, introduced to South Korea and China.
- It infests several Pinus species, including those present in the EU, causing significant damage and necessitating large-scale tree removal in affected regions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To perform a pest categorisation of Thecodiplosis japonensis for the EU territory.
- To assess its potential as a Union quarantine pest.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on T. japonensis biology, host range, and impact.
- Analysis of climate matching and host tree distribution for EU territory suitability.
- Assessment against EU plant health pest categorisation criteria.
Main Results:
- Thecodiplosis japonensis attacks key pine species and has a life cycle involving overwintering larvae in soil.
- Detection methods include symptom observation (stunted needles, galls) and molecular identification (COI gene).
- Climate and host distribution models indicate a high potential for establishment and impact within the EU.
Conclusions:
- The pest satisfies criteria for a potential Union quarantine pest.
- Its introduction could pose a significant threat to EU pine forests.
- Monitoring and regulatory action are suggested to prevent establishment.
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