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Pest categorisation of Dendrolimus punctatus
EFSA Journal. European Food Safety Authority
|March 6, 2024
Summary
Dendrolimus punctatus, a pine caterpillar, poses a potential threat to European Union (EU) forests. Its ability to adapt to new pine species raises concerns about establishment and impact, warranting its consideration as a quarantine pest.
Area of Science:
- Entomology and Plant Pathology
- Pest Risk Assessment
- Invasive Species Biology
Background:
- Dendrolimus punctatus (Masson pine caterpillar) is a significant pest in Asia, causing extensive damage to various Pinus species.
- Its potential introduction to the European Union (EU) was identified during a risk assessment of bonsai Pinus parviflora from China.
- Current EU regulations prohibit the introduction of its primary hosts from affected regions, but uncertainties remain regarding its establishment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To conduct a pest categorization of Dendrolimus punctatus for the EU.
- To evaluate the potential risks associated with the introduction and establishment of D. punctatus in the EU.
- To determine if D. punctatus meets the criteria for a potential Union quarantine pest.
Main Methods:
- Pest categorization following established EU guidelines.
- Commodity risk assessment focusing on bonsai Pinus parviflora grafted onto P. thunbergii.
- Analysis of pest distribution, host range, life cycle, and potential entry pathways into the EU.
- Evaluation of climatic suitability and potential for establishment in EU territories.
Main Results:
- Dendrolimus punctatus has a wide host range in Asia, including several Pinus species, with 3-5 generations per year.
- Potential entry pathways into the EU include eggs, larvae, or pupae in plants for planting, cut branches, or wood with bark.
- Despite limited climatic overlap, the pest's capacity to utilize North American pine species suggests a potential to adapt to EU Pinus species.
- D. punctatus satisfies the criteria for a potential Union quarantine pest.
Conclusions:
- Dendrolimus punctatus is identified as a pest of possible concern to the EU.
- Uncertainty remains regarding its ability to establish and the potential impact on European pine species, necessitating further investigation.
- The pest meets the criteria for consideration as a Union quarantine pest due to its potential risks.
