Pest categorisation of Popillia quadriguttata

Area of Science:

• Plant Health
• Entomology
• Pest Risk Assessment

Background:

• Popillia quadriguttata (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae) was identified as a pest of potential concern for the EU.
• The pest originates from East Asia, with a wide range of host plants including fruit trees, forestry species, shrubs, grasses, and crops.

Purpose of the Study:

• To perform a pest categorisation of Popillia quadriguttata.
• To assess the risk posed by Popillia quadriguttata to the European Union.

Main Methods:

• Pest categorisation based on commodity risk assessment of bonsai Pinus parviflora from China.
• Analysis of pest distribution, host range, pathways for entry, establishment potential (biotic and abiotic factors), spread, and potential impacts.

Main Results:

• Popillia quadriguttata is a univoltine, polyphagous pest with a broad host range.
• Potential entry pathways include infested soil and growing media with host plants.
• Large parts of the EU are climatically suitable for establishment, with potential for significant economic and environmental impacts.

Conclusions:

• Popillia quadriguttata meets the criteria for a potential Union quarantine pest.
• Phytosanitary measures can mitigate the risk of introduction.
• The pest poses a significant threat to EU agriculture and environment if established.