Pest categorisation of Diaphania indica

Area of Science:

• Plant Health
• Entomology
• Pest Risk Assessment

Background:

• Diaphania indica, the cucumber moth, is a polyphagous pest native to South Asia with a wide distribution in tropical and subtropical regions.
• It has been identified as a pest of potential concern for the European Union (EU), particularly following a risk assessment of Jasminum polyanthum from Uganda.
• Currently, D. indica is present in Madeira (Portugal) within the EU, but its potential for wider establishment is a significant concern.

Purpose of the Study:

• To perform a pest categorization of Diaphania indica for the European Union territory.
• To assess the potential risks associated with the introduction and establishment of D. indica in the EU.
• To evaluate the suitability of D. indica as a potential Union quarantine pest.

Main Methods:

• Pest categorization based on existing scientific literature and data.
• Commodity risk assessment focusing on potential pathways for entry, such as plants for planting, fruits, and cut flowers.
• Evaluation of climatic conditions and host plant availability within the EU to determine establishment potential.

Main Results:

• Diaphania indica is a polyphagous pest affecting 16 genera across 6 plant families, with a primary preference for Cucurbitaceae.
• Key EU cucurbit hosts include cucumber, melon, pumpkin, summer squash, and watermelon.
• Favorable climatic conditions and host plant availability in southern EU countries, and greenhouses in northern EU, suggest a high likelihood of establishment and spread.

Conclusions:

• Diaphania indica meets the criteria for consideration as a potential Union quarantine pest.
• Establishment of this pest in the EU could lead to significant economic impact on cultivated crops, especially cucurbits.
• Phytosanitary measures are crucial to mitigate the risk of entry and further spread of D. indica within the EU.