Pest categorisation of Crisicoccus seruratus

Area of Science:

• Plant Health
• Entomology
• Pest Risk Assessment

Background:

• The mealybug Crisicoccus matsumotoi was identified as a potential pest of concern for Acer palmatum plants from China.
• A recent taxonomic revision established C. matsumotoi as a synonym of C. seruratus, necessitating a re-evaluation using the current valid name.

Purpose of the Study:

• To conduct a pest categorization of Crisicoccus seruratus for the European Union territory.
• To assess the potential risks and pathways for introduction and establishment of C. seruratus in the EU.

Main Methods:

• Review of taxonomic information and existing records of C. seruratus distribution.
• Assessment of host plant availability, climate suitability, and potential pathways for entry into the EU.
• Evaluation of potential economic impacts on key agricultural crops.

Main Results:

• Crisicoccus seruratus is native to Japan, with uncertain records from China and the Republic of Korea.
• The pest has three generations per year, overwinters as a nymph, and affects crops such as figs, grapes, nashi pears, persimmons, and walnuts.
• Suitable climate and host availability exist in central, northern, and parts of southern EU countries, with plants for planting and fruits as potential entry pathways.

Conclusions:

• The introduction of C. seruratus could lead to significant economic impacts in the EU through yield reduction and fruit downgrading.
• The species satisfies criteria for consideration as a potential Union quarantine pest.
• Phytosanitary measures can mitigate the risk of entry and spread, although the pest is not currently listed in Annex II of Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2019/2072.