Pest categorisation of Dendrolimus spectabilis

Area of Science:

• Plant Health
• Entomology
• Pest Risk Analysis

Background:

• Dendrolimus spectabilis, the Japanese pine caterpillar, is a moth native to East Asia.
• Larvae feed on various pine species, including Pinus densiflora and Pinus thunbergii, with potential to adapt to other conifers.

Purpose of the Study:

• To perform a pest categorisation of Dendrolimus spectabilis for the European Union (EU).
• To assess the potential risk Dendrolimus spectabilis poses to EU conifer species.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing literature on the pest's biology, distribution, and host range.
• Assessment of potential entry pathways into the EU.
• Evaluation of climatic suitability and potential impact on EU flora.

Main Results:

• Dendrolimus spectabilis occurs in EU-like climatic zones and has demonstrated adaptability to different pine species.
• Potential entry routes include contaminated plants, wood products, and potted plants.
• Existing EU regulations prohibit the introduction of hosts from known infested areas.

Conclusions:

• Dendrolimus spectabilis meets criteria for a potential Union quarantine pest due to its invasive potential.
• Further assessment is needed to quantify economic and environmental impacts on EU conifers.