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Pest categorisation of Mimela testaceipes
EFSA Journal. European Food Safety Authority
|November 30, 2023
Summary
Mimela testaceipes, a chafer beetle, poses a potential threat to EU forestry. Its introduction could impact Japanese cedar, cypress, and larch, with conditions favorable for establishment in central and northern Europe.
Area of Science:
- Entomology and Plant Health
- Pest Risk Assessment
- Forestry and Horticulture
Background:
- Mimela testaceipes (striated chafer) identified as a pest of concern for the EU.
- Current distribution includes Japan, China, Russia, and Korea.
- Adults damage conifers; larvae damage roots of grasses and conifers.
Purpose of the Study:
- To perform a pest categorization of Mimela testaceipes for the EU.
- To assess the risk posed by dwarfed Pinus parviflora imports from China.
- To determine if M. testaceipes meets criteria for a potential Union quarantine pest.
Main Methods:
- Pest categorization based on commodity risk assessment of Pinus parviflora.
- Review of M. testaceipes biology, host range, and geographical distribution.
- Analysis of potential introduction pathways and establishment conditions in the EU.
Main Results:
- M. testaceipes adults feed on Japanese cedar, cypress, and larch; larvae damage roots.
- Potential pathways into the EU include soil, host plants, and cut branches.
- EU climate zones are conducive to M. testaceipes establishment, particularly in central and northern regions.
Conclusions:
- M. testaceipes is considered a potential Union quarantine pest.
- Establishment in the EU could lead to significant impacts on susceptible forestry species.
- Further assessment is warranted due to favorable conditions for establishment and potential host adaptation.
