ORGANISATION EUROPEENNE  
ET MEDITERRANEENNE  
POUR LA PROTECTION DES PLANTES   
 
 
EUROPEAN AND 
MEDITERRANEAN  
PLANT PROTECTION  
ORGANIZATION  
 
 
21 Bld Richard Lenoir  
75011 Paris  Tel: 33 1 45 20 77 94  
E-mail: hq@eppo.int  Web : www.eppo.int  
GD: gd.eppo.int  
 
 
EPPO  Reporting  Service  
 
NO. 8 PARIS, 2018-08 
 
General   
2018/152  New data on quarantine pests and pests of the EPPO Alert List  
2018/153  Conference on ‘Preparing Europe for invasion by the beetles emerald ash borer and bronze 
birch borer’ (Vienna, 2018 -10-01/04)  
Pests    
2018/154  First report of Spodoptera frugiperda  in India 
2018/155  First report of Xylotrechus chinensis  in Spain  
2018/156  First report of Xylotrechus chinensis  in Crete, Greece  
2018/157  Xylotrechus chinensis (Coleoptera: Cerambycidae):  addition to the EPPO Alert List  
2018/158  First report of Rhagoletis completa  in Slovakia  
2018/159  First report of Dasineura oxycoccana  in Germany  
2018/160  Incursion of Thaumatotibia leucotreta in Germany  
2018/161  First report of Pomacea  sp. in France  
2018/162  First report of Cydalima perspectalis in Georgia 
Diseases   
2018/163  First report of Phytophthora ramorum in Slovakia  
2018/164  First report of Dothistroma pini in Germany  
2018/165  Plum pox virus  strain M detected in Japan  
2018/166  First report of Hymenoscyphus fraxineus  on Phillyrea  spp. and Chionant hus virginicus  in the 
United Kingdom  
Invasive plants   
2018/167  Human perception  of pine invasions in Chilean Araucaria araucana forests  
2018/168  Why does the abundance of native and invasive plants vary along rivers?  
2018/169  Broad associations between Pennisetum setaceum  and arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi support 
invasions  
2018/170  Evaluating the status of eucalypt  species in South Africa 
 
 EPPO Reporting Service 201 8 no. 8 - General  
 
 
 2 2018/ 152 New data on quarantine pests and pests of the EPPO Alert List  
 
By searching through the literature, the EPPO Secretariat has extracted the following new 
data concerning quarantine pests and pests included (or formerly included) on the EPPO 
Alert List, and indicated in bold the situation of the pest concerned using the  terms of ISPM 
no. 8.  
 
• New records  
In Greece, Aleurocanthus spiniferus (Hemiptera: Aleyrodidae –  EPPO A2 List) was reported 
for the first time in July 2016 near Alepou on the island of Corfu (Kypriotis et al. , 2017). 
Present, no details.  
 
In Greece, during studies on Dryocosmus kuriphilus , Gnomoniopsis smithogilvyi (=G. 
castaneae) has also been detected.  This the first time that this fungus is reported from 
Greece (Memtsas et al., 2017). Present, no details.  
 
The NPPO of Cyprus recently reported the presence of Chrysolina americana (Chrysomelidae) 
on its territory. In March 2018, the insect was found in a botanical garden in  Athalassa 
(Nicosia district) on rosemary ( Rosmarinus officinalis) plants (NPPO of Cyprus, 2018) .  
The official pest status of Chrysolina americana  in Cyprus is officially declared as: T ransient , 
actionable, under surveillance . 
 
 
• Detailed records  
Drosophila suzukii (Diptera:  Drosophilidae  – EPPO A2 List)  also occurs in the area s of the 
island of Cyprus  that are not under the effective control of the  government of the Republic 
of Cyprus  (i.e. Northern part of Cyprus) . The pest was first found in September 2016 on 
apricot ( Prunus armeniaca) in Morfou. During 2016/2017, t he pest was caught in vinegar 
traps which had been placed in various fruit tree orchards in Lefke and Morfou, (Özbeck 
Çatal et al., 2018).  
 
In Spain, Dryocosmus kuriphilus (Hymenoptera: Cynipidae – EPPO A2 List)  was first reported 
in 2012 in Cataluña  (EPPO RS 2014/067) , and then in Cantabria and Galicia. In 2018,  
D. kuriphilus  was found for the first time in Castilla y Le ón, in the Valle del Tiétar (province 
of Ávila). It is also noted that in Galicia, biological control with Torymus sinensis has been 
intensified with the release of 790 000 individuals in 2018 (133 000 in 2017, 65 000 in 2016, 
1 500 in 2015) (Anonymous, 2018).  
 
In Crete (Greece), Zaprionus tuberculatus (Diptera: Drosophilidae – EPPO Alert List) was 
recorded for the first time  in 2008 . The insect was found again d uring summer 2014 in mature 
figs (Leivadaras et al., 2017) . Present, no details.  
 
 
• Host plants  
In Northern Italy, Halyomorpha halys  (Heteroptera: Pentatomidae –  formerly EPPO Alert List)  
has increasingly been observed in the rice -growing areas of  the Po valley. From August to 
October 2016, visual observations were made in paddy rice ( Oryza sativa ) fields in Lombardia 
region. H. halys  was observed on rice panicles in Linarolo and Zeme (both in Pavia province) 
in September and October 2016, respecti vely. Probing activity of the insect on rice grain, 
provides evidence that H. halys  is attracted to rice for feeding. These observations and the 
fact that H. halys  continues to spread within rice -growing areas suggest that rice might act EPPO Reporting Service 201 8 no. 8 - General  
 
 
 3 as a host plant. However, more studies are needed to determine the nature and extent of 
feeding damage that H. halys could inflict on  rice (Lupi et al ., 2017).  
 
In Spain, Halyomorpha halys  (Heteroptera: Pentatomidae –  formerly EPPO Alert List) was 
first fo und in autumn 2016 in Cataluña  (EPPO RS 2017/093). In 2017, numerous specimens 
were caught in Cataluña  (Anonymous, 2018).  
 
 
• New pests and taxonomy 
A new root -lesion nematode associated with maize ( Zea mays ) has recently been described 
in Rwanda and called Pratylenchus rwandae  s.sp. (Singh et al .). 
 
Sources:  Anonymous (2018) Halyomorpha halys , una nueva plaga que afecta los cultivos en 
Catalu ña. Phytoma -España  no. 299, p 4. 
Anonymous (2018) La avispilla del c astaño llega al Valle del Tiétar. Phytoma -España  
no. 300, p 14. 
Kypriotis A, Katerinis S, Andreadis SS, Navrozidis E (2017) Presence, description and 
developmental characteristics of the newly emerging quarantine pest Aleurocanthus 
spiniferus in Corfu. Abstract of a poster presented at the Panhellenic E ntomological 
Congress (Athens, GR, 2017- 09-19/22) , p 74 . 
Leivadaras J, Leivadara EI, Vontas J (2017) A new insect, drosophila Zaprionus 
tuberculatus  (Diptera: Drosophilidae), affects the figs on Crete. Abstract of a 
paper presented at the Panhellenic Entomological Congress (Athens, GR, 2017 -09-
19/22) , p 27 . 
Lupi D, Dioli P, Limonta L (2017) First evidence of Halyomorpha halys (Stål) 
(Hemiptera Heteroptera, Pentatomidae) feeding on rice ( Oryza sativa L.) . Journal 
of Entomological and Acarological Research  49(1), 67 -71. 
https://www.pagepressjournals.org/index.php/jear/article/view/6679/6491  
Memtsas GI, Melika G, Tziros GT, Petsopoulos D, Avtzis DN (2017) Dryocosmus 
kuriphilus in Greece - Identification of native natural enemies and Gnomoniopsis 
castanea. Abstract of a paper presented at the Panhellenic Entomological Congress 
(Athens, GR, 2017 -09-19/22), p 30. 
NPPO of Cyprus (2018- 05). 
Özbeck Çatal  B, Helvaci  M, Çalişkan Keçe AF, Ulusoy  MR (2018) First record of 
Drosophila suzukii in the areas of the Republic of Cyprus not under the effective 
control of the government of the Republic of Cyprus . Bulletin OEPP/EPPO Bulletin  
48(2), 274 -276. 
Singh, PR,  Nyiragatare  A, Janssen  T, Couvreur  M, Decraemer  W, Bert W (2018) 
Morphological and molecular characterisation of Pratylenchus rwandae n. sp. 
(Tylenchida: Pratylenchidae) associated with maize in Rwanda . Nematology . DOI: 
https://doi.org/10.1163/15685411 -00003175  (via PestLens).  
Additional key words: new record, detailed record, host 
plant, new pest, taxonomy  Computer codes:  ALECSN, CRYSAM, DROSSU, DRYCKU, GNMPCA, 
HALYHA, PRATRW, ZAPRTU, CY, ES, GR, IT, RW   
 
 
 
  EPPO Reporting Service 201 8 no. 8 - General  
 
 
 4 2018/ 153 Conference  on ‘Preparing Europe for invasion by the beetles emerald ash 
borer and bronze birch borer’  (Vienna, 2018- 10-01/04)  
 
A conference on ‘Preparing Europe for invasion by the beetles emerald ash borer and bronze 
birch borer’ will be organised in Vienna, Austria, in 2018 -10-01/04. The event is sponsored 
by the OECD Co -operative Research Programme, co- funded by the UK government ( Defra - 
Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs)  and organised with in the framework of 
the Euphresco  project ‘Risk -based strategies to prepare for and manage invasive tree borers 
– Pest risk evaluation and pest management systems’ (PREPSYS). The conference will bring 
together expertise from a wide range of countries, representing the native and invaded 
ranges of the two pests (Agrilus planipennis and  A. anxius ). The deadline for registration is: 
2018-09-07. 
 
More information can be found on the Conference website:  
https://bfw.ac.at/rz/bfwcms.web?do k=10361  
 
Source:  EPPO Secretariat (2018 -08). 
Additional key words:  conference  Computer codes:  AGRLPL, AGRLAX , AT 
 
 
 EPPO Reporting Service 2018  no. 8 – Pests  
 
 
 
 
 5 2018/ 154 First report of Spodoptera frugiperda  in India  
 
The fall armyworm, Spodoptera frugiperda (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae –  EPPO A1 List)  has been 
identified for the first time in India. This is also a first record for Asia . In May 2018, the 
presence of the pest was noted in maize ( Zea mays ) fields within the campus of the 
University of Agricultural and Horticultural Sciences in Shivamogga, Karnataka. S. frugiperda 
was then observed in different districts of Karnataka. In August 2018, S. frugiperda was also 
report ed in Andhra Pradesh. Damage and insect larvae were found in sweet maize grown at 
the farm of the Agricultural College of Tirupati, as well as in maize fields in the 
Pathasanambatla village ( Chandragiri mandal , Chittoor distric t). On the Internet, records  of 
S. frugiperda in other Indian states ( Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu,  and Telangana) were  also 
published in August 2018 but need to be confirmed.  
Considering the phytosanitary crisis caused by the introduction S. frugiperda in Africa, its 
discovery in India,  in a rapidly growing number of States, is raising serious concerns.  
 
Source:  INTERNET  
Acharya N.G. Ranga Agricultural University (ANGRAU) Pest Alert (2018 -08-09) Fall 
armyworm, Spodoptera frugiperda (J.E. Smith) (Lepidoptera:  Noctuidae), an 
invasive p est on m aize. https://www.angrau.ac.in/pdf/Pest%20Alert -%20FAW -
1.pdf  
CABI. The invasive blog (2018- 08-02) CABI warns of rapid spread of crop- devastating 
fall armyworm across Asia. https://blog.invasive -species.org/2018/08/02/cabi -
warns -of-rapid -spread- of-crop- devastating -fall-armyworm -across- asia/  
CIMMYT (2018- 08-13) ‘Fall armyworm reported in India: battle against the pest 
extends now to Asia ’ by Cowan C and Johnson J. https://www.cimmyt.org /fall-
armyworm -reported- in-india-battle -against -the-pest-extends -now-to-asia/  
ICAR-NBAIR. Pest Alert (2018 -07-03) Spodoptera frugiperda (J. E. Smith) (Insecta: 
Lepidoptera) . 
http://www.nbair.res.in/recent_events/Pest%20Alert%2030th%20July%202018-
new1.pdf  
IITA (2018- 08-04) Fall armyworm has reached the Indian subcontinent!  
http://www.iita.org/news -item/fall -armyworm -has-reached- the-indian -
subcontinent/  
University of Agricultural and Horticultural Sciences in Shivamogga  (2018- 07-20) 
‘Presenc e of fall armyworm, Spodoptera frugiperda (JE Smith) (Lepidoptera: 
Noctuidae), an invasive pest on maize in University jurisdiction’ by 
Sharanabasappa and Kalleshwara Swamy CM . 
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1hEW58nhZViHPnRduCjRHVIfWhGASHLSH/view  
 
Internet News ( Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu and Telengana ) 
The Hindu (2018 -08-20) Fall a rmyworm spreads to maize fields in Tiruchi . 
https://www.thehindu.com/todays -paper/tp -national/tp -tamilnadu/fall -
armyworm -spreads -to-maize -fields -in-tiruchi/article24733851.ece  
The New Indian Express (2018 -08-22) North American pest makes a debut in 
Telangana, officials worried . 
http://www.newindianexpress.com/states/telangana/2018/aug/22/north -
american -pest-makes -a-debut -in-telangana -officials -worried -1861078.html  
 
Pictures:  Spodoptera frugiperda . https://gd.eppo.int/taxon/LAPHFR/photos  
Additional key words:  new record  Computer codes:  LAPHFR, IN  
 
 
 
  EPPO Reporting Service 2018  no. 8 – Pests  
 
 
 
 
 6 2018/ 155 First report of Xylotrechus chinensis  in Spain  
 
Xylotrechus chinensis (Coleoptera: Cerambycidae  – Tiger longicorn beetle ) is a wood borer  
originating in Eastern Asia which has recently been found in Spain, first in Cataluña and then 
in Communidad Valenciana.  
 
Catal uña 
Adults of X. chinensis were first observed in Cataluña in July 2013, which suggests that the 
species was probably introduced in 2012 or earlier. The insect is considered to be established 
in an area located 12 -15 km to the North -West of Barcelona city within the district of Valles 
Occidental. Its presence was recorded in October 2014 in the towns of Cerda nyola del Vallès, 
Badia del Vallès and Barberà del Vallès (Province of Barcelona). In February 2018, X. 
chinensis was also reported from the town of Ripollet. As of July 2018, the pest had been 
detected in 5 municipalities covering 58 km2. Damage caused by  the wood boring larvae was 
observed on mulberry  trees ( Morus alba, M. nigra). Both tree species are commonly planted  
in private gardens, recreational areas and along the  streets. Depending on the towns  
concerned,  between 10 and 45% of mulberry trees surve yed were found to be infested. 
Infested trees are weakened and finally die. Municipalities affected have initiated control 
with insecticide treatments by endotherapy, and removal of the most affected trees.  
 
Communidad Valenciana  
In June 2018, a phytosanitary company informed the Regional Plant Protection Service of 
the presence of damage on Morus  sp. and of an adult X. chinensis in the municipality of 
Quartell (Province of Valencia). A delimiting survey conducted in July 2018 found 11 Morus  
trees infested and one adult  beetle. Identification of the pest was confirmed by the national 
reference laboratory. Further surveys detected the pest in Sagunto (Province of Valencia) 
and Almenara (Province of Castellón ). A preliminary Pest Risk  Assessment is being conducted 
to decide on phytosanitary measures to be applied.  
 
The pest status of  Xylotrechus chinensis in Spain is officially declared as:  Present , only in 
some parts of the country.  
 
Source:  NPPO of Spain (2018 -08). 
INTERNET  
Sarto i Monteys V (2018) El escarabajo -avispa, nueva especie invasora en Europa. 
Adelantos Digital 1 –6. http://www.adelantosdigital.com/web/escarabajo -avispa -
nueva -especie -invasora -europa/  
Sarto i Monteys V, Torras i Tutusaus G (2018) A new alien invasive longhorn beetle, 
Xylotrechus chinensis (Cerambycidae), is infesting mulberries in Catalonia (Spain). 
Insects 9 (2). https://doi.org/10.3390/insects9020052  
 
Pictures:  Xylotrechus chinensis.  https://gd.eppo.int/taxon/XYLOCH/photos  
Additional key words:  new record  Computer codes:  XYLOCH, ES  
 
 
 
  EPPO Reporting Service 2018  no. 8 – Pests  
 
 
 
 
 7 2018/ 156 First report of Xylotrechus chinensis  in Crete, Greece  
 
In spring 2017, mulberry trees (Morus  sp.) near the harbour of Heraklion in Crete (Greece)  
were found to be heavily infested by a cerambycid species. The pest was identified as 
Xylotrechus  chinensis (Coleoptera: Cerambycidae  – Tiger longicorn beetle ) by morphological 
and molecular methods. So far, about 200 trees have been recorded as infested by X. 
chinensis. Of these trees, about 15% exhibited complet e desiccation while the rest exhibited 
typical symptoms of infestation (e.g. exit holes). Infested trees are being removed and 
destroyed to try to eradicate the outbreak. It is considered that the pest may have been 
present since 2014 -2015.  
The situation of  Xylotrechus chinensis in Greece can be described as  follows : Present, 
restricted distribution, under official control.  
 
Source:  Leivadara E, Leivadaras I, Vontas I, Trichas A, Simoglou K, Roditakis E , Avtzis DN 
(2018) First record of Xylotrechus chinensis  (Coleoptera, Cerambycidae) in Greece 
and in the EPPO region. Bulletin OEPP/ EPPO Bulletin  48(2), 277– 280. 
https://doi.org/10.1111/epp.12468  
 
Pictures:  Xylotrechus chinensis.  https://gd.eppo.int/taxon/XYLOCH/photos  
Additional key words:  new record  Computer codes:  XYLOCH, GR 
 
 
 
2018/ 157 Xylotrechus chinensis  (Coleoptera: Cerambycidae ): addition to the EPPO 
Alert List 
 
Why:  Xylotrechus chinensis (Coleoptera: Cerambycidae  - Tiger longicorn beetle ) is an Asian 
wood borer  which has recently been found in two  EPPO countries (Spain, Greece) , causing  
mortality of Morus  trees. In its area of origin,  other reported hosts include  Malus  spp. 
(apple) , Pyrus  spp. (pear), and Vitis vinifera  (grapevine) . Considering the importance of the 
host plants in the EPPO region, and its recent introduction in several places almost 
simultaneously, the EPPO Secretariat considered that X. chinensis should be added to the 
EPPO Alert List.  
 
Where:  X. chinensis originates from East Asia.  In Spain, it was first found in 2013 in Cataluña  
where it is considered to be established, and in 2018 it was also observed  in Communidad 
Valenciana. In Greece, the pes t was discovered in 2017 near the harbour of Heraklion in 
Crete.  
EPPO region: Spain (Cataluña, Comm unidad  Valenciana), Greece ( Crete only ). 
Asia: China (Anhui, Beijing, Fujian, Gansu, Guangdong, Guangxi, Hebei, Henan, Hong Kong, 
Hubei, Jiangsu, Jiangxi, Liaoning, Shaanxi, Shandong, Shanghai, Shanxi, Sichuan, Xizhang, 
Yunnan, Zhejiang ), Japan  (Hokkaido, Honshu, Kyushu, Ryukyu, Shikoku) , Korea (Dem. 
People's Republic of), Korea (Republic of) , Taiwan.  
In Japan, some authors consider that two  subspecies ( X. chinensis kobayashii and X. chinensis 
kurosawai)  are present on the archipelago . However, the status of these subspecies needs 
to be clarified.  
 
On which plants:  Morus  spp. ( mulberries), in particular M. alba, M. bombycis, M. nigra are 
considered as major hosts. Malus  spp. (apple) , Pyrus  spp. (pear),  and Vitis vinifera  
(grapevine)  are considered as hosts in some publications but without direct evidence. In 
preliminar y experiments conducted in Spain on V. vinifera plants with trunks of less than 5 
cm diameter , X. chinensis did not use  them  as host  plant s. EPPO Reporting Service 2018  no. 8 – Pests  
 
 
 
 
 8  
Damage:  X. chinensis is not reported as a pest in China. In Spain and Greece , infestations 
and damage  were reported only from mulberry trees. Feeding activity of larvae disrupts the 
transportation of water and nutrients in the tree, which results in a gradual weakening of 
the tree that can result in its death. Infested trees exhibit multiple exit holes.  
Studies on the life history of X. chinensis have been conducted in Japan and in Catal uña. X. 
chinensis is univoltine  (one generation per year) . Adults emerge from June to August (mostly 
in July in Catal uña) through circular exit holes (5 -6 mm diameter ). Adult s (about 15 -25 mm 
long) are black and yellow , mimicking the appearance of a hornet . Eggs (about 2 mm long, 
0.7 mm wide) are white, elongated and rounded at poles. Each  female can lay about 80 eggs 
throughout  its life time. Immediately after hatching, larvae bore into the bark and enter the 
phloem and xylem of mulberry trees, either along the trunks or at the base of the main 
branches. Cracks in the bark and frass may be observed. Mature or old trees are preferred. 
In Spain and Greece , the pest was reported to infest healthy trees,  but larvae may also 
develop in cut trees. X. chinensis overwinters in the wood of  its host trees as larvae. At the 
end of spring when larvae have finished their development, they tunnel a new cavity  into 
the xylem where they pupate. The life cycle lasts for one year.  
Pictures are available in the EPPO Global Database:  https://gd.eppo.int/taxon/XYLOCH  
 
Dissemination:  There is little information about the natural spread of the pest, but adults 
can fly. Females are attracted to males by a male pheromone. Over long distances, trade of 
infested plants, wood and wood products can disseminate X. chinensis.  On at least 3 
occasions, the pest has been intercepted in trade. In 2007, Germany intercepted X. chinensis 
on wood packaging material (box) imported from China, from which 2 live beetles emerged. 
In 2011, USA intercepted the pest on wood en spools holding steel wire rope  imported from 
China. In 2017, Germany intercepted again X. chinensis in a container of wooden decoration 
items (made of Betula  and Salix – which are not considered hosts).  
 
Pathway s: Plants for planting, wood, wood packaging material (including dunnage), wood 
chips from countries where X. chinensis occurs . 
 
Possible risks:  Morus  trees are widely distributed in the EPPO region where they are grown 
as ornamentals , as well as for their edible fruit, wood and foliage (for animal feed). They 
are also present in forests. In addition, there is a marginal cultivation for silkworm feeding 
for example in Turkey and Central Asia. In the infested area in Catal uña, up to 45% of 
mulberry trees were recorded as severely infested and tree mortality was observed. Infested 
trees are more prone to wind breakage, which may be problematic where trees are used in 
parks and along streets. Wood quality is also affected. So far , X. chinensis has not been 
reported on apple, pear and grape vine in the Spanish and Greek outbreaks, but these hosts 
have a major  economic importance in the EPPO region. Control is difficult as the insect 
spends most of its  life cycle hidden in the wood. Possible control options include removal of 
infested trees, insecticide sprays on the trunks to prevent oviposition, or insecticide trunk 
injection to kill larvae. Sexual confusion may be considered as a male pheromone has be en 
identified. In Catal uña, a native wasp , Stephanus serrator  (Hymenoptera: Stephanidae) , is 
considered as a possible parasitoid of X. chinensis. Finally, its recent introduction into  two 
EPPO countries, the observation of tree mortality , and the fact that  X. chinensis has been 
intercepted in wood packaging material suggest that particular attention should be paid to 
X. chinensis to prevent its  further spread within the EPPO region.  
 
Sources  
Benker U (2008) Stowaways in w ood p ackaging m aterial . Current s ituation in Bavaria. Forstschutz 
Aktuell  4, 30–31. EPPO Reporting Service 2018  no. 8 – Pests  
 
 
 
 
 9 CBP (2011) U.S. Customs and Border Protection . https://www.cbp. gov/newsroom/local -media -
release/philly -cbp-intercepts -nations -first-xylotrechus -chinensis -beetle  
Danilevsky M (2018) Catalogue of Palaearctic Cerambycoidea, 6. 
http://www.cerambycidae.net/catalog.pdf  
Han Y & Lee D (2010) Taxonomic r eview of the g enus Xylotrechus  (Coleoptera: Cerambycidae: 
Cerambycinae) in Korea with a newly recorded species . Korean Journal of Applied Entomology  
49(2), 69 –82. https://doi.org/10.5656/KSAE.2010.49.2.069  
Leivadara E, Leivadaras I, Vontas I, Trichas A, Simoglou K, Roditakis E , Avtzis DN (2018) First record 
of Xylotrechus chinensis (Coleoptera, Cerambycidae) in Greece and in the EPPO region. Bulletin 
OEPP/ EPPO Bulletin  48(2), 277– 280. https://doi.org/10.1111/epp.12468  
Lin M (2014) Some new localities of Chinese longhorn beetles (Coleoptera, Cerambycidae). Les 
Cahiers Magellanes, NS , 16, 110– 150. 
Lim J, Jung S -Y, Lim J -S, Jang J, Kim K -M, Lee Y -M, Lee B -W (2014) A r eview of host plants of 
Cerambycidae (Coleoptera: Chrysomeloidea) with new h ost records for f ourteen Cerambycids, 
including the Asian l onghorn b eetle ( Anoplophora glabripennis Motschulsky), in Korea. Korean 
Journal of Applied Entomology  53(2), 111 –133. https://doi.org/10.5656/KSAE.2013.11.1.061  
Makihara H (1979) Tribe Clytini of Okinawa Prefecture (Coleoptera: Cerambycidae). Esaki  14, 149–
173. http://www.cerambycoidea.com/titles/makihara1979.pdf  
Sarto i Monteys V, Torras i Tutusaus G (2018) A new alien invasive longhorn beetle, Xylotrechus 
chinensis  (Cerambycidae), is infesting mulberries in Catalonia (Spain). Insects 9 (2). 
https://doi.org/10.3390/insects9020052  
Sarto i Monteys V (2018) El escarabajo -avispa, nueva especie invasora en Europa. Adel antos Digital , 
1–6. http://www.adelantosdigital.com/web/escarabajo -avispa -nueva -especie- invasora- europa/  
Schrader G (JKI) (2017) Express – PRA zu Xylotrechus chinensis . https://pflanzengesundheit.julius -
kuehn.de/dokumente/upload/b75e3_xylotrechus -chinensis_express -pra.pdf  
 
EPPO RS 2018/157 
 
Panel review date -  Entry date 201 8-08 
Additional key words:  Alert List  Computer codes:  XYLOCH  
 
 
 
2018/ 158 First report of Rhagoletis completa  in Slovakia  
 
The NPPO of Slovakia recently informed the EPPO Secretariat of the first record of Rhagoletis 
completa  (Diptera: Tephritidae -  EU Annexes) on its territory. During official surveys,  the 
insect was caught in a trap in July 2018. This trap was situated in Bratislava on a parking lot 
next to a  garden centre.  The same month, R. completa  was caught in another trap situated 
in Veselé, also near a garden center. In August 2018, R. complet a was found in Košice  on 2 
walnut ( Juglans regia ) trees in a private garden; these i nfested plants will be burnt.  
The pest status of Rhagoletis completa in Slovakia  is officially declared as: Transient, non-
actionable.  
 
Source:  NPPO of Slovakia (2018 -08). 
 
Pictures:  Rhagoletis complet a. https://gd.eppo.int/taxon/RHAGCO/photos  
Additional key words:  new record  Computer codes:  RHAGCO, SK  
 
 
 
  EPPO Reporting Service 2018  no. 8 – Pests  
 
 
 
 
 10 2018/ 159 First report of Dasineura oxycoccana  in Germany  
 
The NPPO of Germany recently informed the EPPO Secretariat of the first record of 
Dasyneura oxycoccana (Diptera: Cecidomyiidae – formerly EPPO Alert List)  on its territory. 
The insect was found in a fruit production site in Brandenburg  on 50 plants of Vaccinium 
corymbosum cv. Liberty. On these plants, some twig tips showed necrosis , and in some cases, 
larvae were found inside  these symptomatic twigs. The owner of the production site 
destroyed the infested parts of the plants. The source of this outbreak could not be 
ascertained, as Vaccinium  plants o f the infested plot originate d from different origins.  
The pest status of Dasineura oxycoccana in Germany is officially declared as: Present, o nly 
in some parts of the Member State concerned.  
 
Source:  NPPO of Germany (2018 -08). 
Additional key words:  new record  Computer codes:  DASYVA, DE  
 
 
 
2018/ 160 Incursion of Thaumatotibia leucotreta in Germany  
 
The NPPO of Germany recently informed the EPPO Secretariat of the first record of 
Thaumatotibia leucotreta  (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae –  EPPO A2 List)  on its territory.  In June 
2018, a single male specimen of T. leucotreta  was caught in a trap during an official survey  
carried out in Saxony. This pheromone trap was placed i n a glasshouse (400 m²) producing 
sweet pepper ( Capsicum annuum ). In this glasshouse, sweet pepper plants had been planted 
in May/June, and at the time o f the pest finding, fruit harvest had not started. The origin of 
this incursion is unknown, but it is presumed that the pest escaped from a waste container 
of a supermarket which was located nearby  and contained various fruit and vegetable waste . 
Official phytosanitary measures have been taken.  The NPPO noted that T. leucotreta is not 
expected to survive outdoors in Saxony and that in addition, the glasshouse concerned is not 
heated during winter.  
The pest status of Thaumatotibia leucotreta  in Germany is officially declared as: Transient 
only 1 specimen at 1 location, actionable, under eradication.  
 
Source:  NPPO of Germany (2018 -08). 
 
Pictures:  Thaumatotibia leucotreta . https://gd.eppo. int/taxon/ARGPLE/photos  
Additional key words:  new record, incursion  Computer codes:  ARGPLE, DE  
 
 
 
2018/ 161 First report of Pomacea  sp. in France  
 
The NPPO of France recently informed the EPPO Secretariat of the first record of Pomacea 
sp. (Ampullariidae, apple snails -  EU emergency measures) on its territory. In July 2018, 
approximately 60 egg masses were discovered in a humid area located in the municipality of 
Fréjus (Var department). Eradication measures will be taken.  
The pest status of  Pomacea sp. in France  is officially declared as: Transient, actionable, 
under eradication.  
 
Source:  NPPO of France (2018 -07). 
 EPPO Reporting Service 2018  no. 8 – Pests  
 
 
 
 
 11 Pictures:  https://gd.eppo.int/taxon/POMASP/photos  
Additional key words:  new record  Computer codes:  POMASP, FR  
 
 
 
2018/ 162 First report of Cydalima perspectalis in Georgia  
 
In Georgia, Cydalima perspectalis  (Lepidoptera: Crambidae – formerly EPPO Alert List) was 
first found during a survey conducted in June and October 2014 in natural populations of 
boxwood ( Buxus colchica) in the Mtirala National Park and the Kintrish Protected Area (both 
in the Autonomous Republic of Adjara). In summer and autumn 2015, further studies were 
conducted in natural forests of boxwood in 6 (out of 9) regions of Georgia. Substantial 
damage (defoliation) was observed in 4 regions ( Autonomous Republic of Adjara,  Guria,  
Imereti, Same grelo -Zemo Svaneti ). Observations suggest that the pest is spreading into 
native boxwood forests from the Black Sea coastal region towards the central part of 
Georgia. Considering its establishment in the Western part of Georgia and its rapid spread 
toward s the East, C. perspectalis represents a serious threat to boxwood species, and in 
particular to the native B. colchica forests, in the Caucasus region.  
 
Source:  Matsiakh I, Kramarets V, Mamadashvili G (2018) Box tree moth Cydalima 
perspectalis as a threat  to the native populations of Buxus colchica  in Republic of 
Georgia.  Journal of the Entomological Research Society 20(2), 29- 42 (via PestLens).  
http://www.entomol.org/journal/index.php?journal=JERS&page=article&op=view&p
ath%5B%5D=1262&path%5B%5D=560  
 
Pictures:  Cydalima perspectalis . https://gd.eppo.int/taxon/DPHNPE/photos  
Additional key words:  new record  Computer codes: DPHNPE, GE  
 
 
 
 EPPO Reporting Service 201 8 no. 8 – Diseases  
 
 
 12 2018/ 163 First report of Phytophthora ramorum  in Slovakia  
 
The NPPO of Slovakia recently informed the EPPO Secretariat of the first record of 
Phytophthora ramorum (EPPO A2 List) on its territory.  In June 2018 , the presence of P. 
ramorum was confirmed in 1 plant within a lot of 64 Rhododendron plants,  in a garden centre 
located in the municipality of Kvetoslavov . This finding was made during an official survey. 
The source of this infe ction is probably linked to imports of infested plant material from 
abroad. Phytosanitary measures have been taken to eradicate the disease, and a 
communication campaign has been launched to raise public awareness on P. ramorum.  
The pest status of Phytophthora ramorum in Slovakia is officially declared as: Transient, 
actionable, under eradication.  
 
Source:  NPPO of Slovakia (2018 -07). 
 
Pictures:  Phytophthora ramorum. https://gd.eppo.int/taxon/PHYTRA/photos  
Additional key words:  new record  Computer codes:  PHYTRA, SK  
 
 
 
2018/ 164 First report of Dothistroma pini in Germany  
 
The NPPO of Germany recently informed the EPPO Secretariat of the first record of 
Dothistroma pini on its territory. The pathogen was detected in February 2018 in 3 Pinus  sp. 
plants in a private garden in the municipality of Thiessow ( Mecklenburg -Western Pomerania) . 
The owner of the garden had sent plant samples to the plant protection service for 
identification and phytosanitary  inspectors later took an official sample. Only D. pini was 
identified in the affected pine trees ( D. septosporum and  Lecanostica acicola were not 
found) . This is the first time that D. pini is reported from  Germany. Phytosanitary measures 
will be taken  to eradicate the pathogen . The plants will be treated with fungicides and 
inspected intensively , and a survey will take place  in the surroundings of the infected 
garden . 
The pest status of Dothistroma pini in Germany is officially declared as: Present, under 
eradication.  
 
Source:  NPPO of Germany  (2018 -08). 
Additional key words:  new record  Computer codes:  DOTSPI, DE  
 
 
 
2018/ 165 Plum pox virus  strain M detected in Japan  
 
In Japan, Plum pox virus  (Potyvirus , PPV – EPPO A2 List) was first found in 2009 in several 
orchards of Japanese apricots ( Prunus mume ) in the prefectures of Tokyo, Ibaraki and 
Kanagaw a (EPPO RS 2011/086) . At that time, only PPV -D was detected. Following this initial 
detection, an eradicati on programme and a nationwide survey were initiated. In June 2016, 
symptoms of PPV were observed on several apricot trees ( P. mume and  P. armeniaca ), peach 
trees ( P. persica) and 1  P. tomentosa tree in Yokohama city.  Symptomatic trees  were located 
in a small area of Yokohama city, most of them were grown in home gardens, and some  were 
planted along  roadsides, in parks and orchards.  The age of these trees ranged from 5 to 20 
years old (or more). In total, 133 symptomatic leaf samples were collected and teste d 
(serological and molecular tests) . All tested samples were found to be infected by PPV and 
the proportions of P. mume, P. persica, P. armeniaca, and  P. tomentosa  were 114 (85.7%), EPPO Reporting Service 201 8 no. 8 – Diseases  
 
 
 13 3 (2.2%), 15 (11.2%) and 1 (0.75%), respectively . Sequencing of total RNAs extracted from 1 
infected P. mume tree, revealed the presence of PPV -M. This is the first time that this type 
of isolate is detected in Japan.  
The situation of Plum pox virus  in Japan can be described as follows: Present, only in  some 
areas, under eradication.  
 
Source:  Oishi M, Inoue Y, Kagatsume R, Shukuya T, Kasukabe R, Oya H, Hoshino S, Ushiku S, 
Fujiwara Y, Motokura Y, Maeda Y (2018) First report of Plum pox virus strain M in 
Japan. Plant Disease 102(4), p 829. 
 
Pictures:  Plum pox virus. https://gd.eppo.int/taxon/PPV000/photos  
Additional key words:  detailed record  Computer codes:  PPV000, JP  
 
 
 
2018/ 166 First report of Hymenoscyphus fraxineus  on Phillyrea  spp. and 
Chionanthus virginicus  in the United Kingdom   
 
In May 2018, Hymenoscyphus fraxineus (formerly EPPO Alert List) was detected on a non-
Fraxinus host in South East England, United Kingdom . Symptomatic hosts comprised trees of 
Phillyrea latifolia , part of a hedge in a private property. The trees had been planted in 
August 2011 but had recently developed symptoms of dying branches and showed 
discolouration of the wood in the cross section of the affected branches. The identification 
of H. fraxineus  was confirmed by isolation, ITS sequencing and real -time PCR. Two additional 
findings of H. fraxineus  were detected on P. angustifolia  and Chionanthus virginicus in a 
tree collection in South West England. The location of these findings on non- ash hosts w as 
in the vicinity of many native ash trees affected by H. fraxineus . Both Phillyrea  and 
Chionanthus belong to the Oleaceae family, as does Fraxinus. P. angustifolia  is native to the 
western and central Mediterranean Basin, from Portugal to Albania.  P. lat ifolia  is native to 
the entire Mediterranean Basin, from Portugal to Syria. C.  virginicus  is native to southern 
North America. The findings of infection by H. fraxineus  on Phillyrea  spp. and C. virginicus  
are the first non- ash host records worldwide. Koch’s p ostulates and the susceptibility of 
different host s within the Oleaceae family are ongoing at the Forest Research UK. 
 
Source:  INTERNET  
Forest Research (2018 -08-07) Chalara ash dieback on different ash species and non -
ash hosts. https://www.forestresearch.gov.uk/news/chalara -ash-dieback -different -
ash-species -and-non-ash-hosts/  
 
GOV.UK (2018- 08-07) Ash dieback found on three new host species of tree in the UK. 
https://www.gov.uk/government/news/ash -dieback -found -on-three- new-host-
species -of-tree-in-the-uk--2 
 
Pictures:  Hymenoscyphus fraxineus.  https://gd.eppo.int/taxon/CHAAFR/photos  
Additional key words:  host plants  Computer codes:  CHAAFR, GB  
 
 
 EPPO Reporting Service 2018  no. 8 – Invasive Plant s 
 
 
 14 2018/ 167 Human perception of pine invasions  in Chilean Araucaria araucana forests   
 
Tree invasions are increasing on a global scale, causing major problems for biodiversity, 
ecosystem services and human well -being. In South America, conifer invasions occur across 
many ecosystems and while studies have addressed the ecological consequences of these 
invasions, little is known about social perceptions and people's attitudes toward their control. 
The social perceptions on the negative impact of invasive conifers can include recreational, 
cultural and conservation aspects. A questionnaire was handed to visitors at the Malalcahuello 
National Reserve (Araucania region of Chile) during both summer and winter months to 
evaluate perceptions about invasive pine species ( Pinus  spp.) and their effects on the 
endangered Araucaria araucana forests.  In these endangered forests, Pinus contorta and 
other cold -tolerant non -native pines have invaded the region and reduce  native biodiversity.  
The questionnaire included images of summer and winter landscapes showing both native 
trees and non- native pines.  Both summer and winter visitors preferred Araucaria araucana 
dominated forests.  The majority (63%) of winter respondents said they were aware of pine 
invasion in the Reserve and this was even higher for summer visitors (86%).  Almost half (46.5%) 
of all the v isitors expressed their willingness to pay for pine control and after being given a 
brief explanation about impacts of pine species, this number rose to 79%.  The results show 
that there is a variation in how people assess the threat of invasive pine species in natural 
areas, but education,  even in a very brief format can help to increase awareness of the 
problem and build social and financial support for their  control.  
 
Source:  Bravo -Vargas V, Garcia RA, Pizarro JC, Pauchard A (2018) Do people care ab out pine 
invasions? Visitor perceptions and willingness to pay for pine control in a protected 
area.  Journal of Environmental management.  DOI:10.1016/j.jenvman.2018.07.018  
Additional key words:  invasive alien plants  Computer codes : ARUAR, PIUCN  CL  
 
 
 
2018/ 168 Why does the abundance of native and invasive plants vary along rivers? 
 
Riparian habitats are among those most prone to invasion by invasive alien plants due to their 
transitional nature, connectedness and history of fluvial and human disturbance . One species 
commonly found along rivers in Europe is Impatiens glandulifera (Balsaminaceae; EPPO List 
of Invasive Alien Plants), an annual species native to the western Himalayas and widespread 
and invasive within the EPPO region. In 2014 , vegetation surveys were conducted along 20 
lowland rivers in central Scotland where the presence of native and non- native species with 
their percentage cover were estimated. In addition, environmental data was collected at each 
site. The results showed t hat I. glandulifera is more sensitive to environmental conditions 
than dominant native vegetation. High soil moisture was a key determinant of I. glandulifera  
cover, having negative effects across the riparian zone. Spatially,  I. glandulifera and dominant 
native vegetation responded differently to environmental conditions. Sites with steeper banks 
had less dominant native vegetation at the water’s edge, potentially favouring I. glandulifera  
cover through reduced competition. In general, greater abundance of  dominant native 
vegetation presented a more invasion- resistant community. Maintaining dominant native 
vegetation at high abundance is thus key to preventing large monospecific I. glandulifera  
stands from forming.  
 
Source:  Pattison Z, Vallejo -Marin M, Will by N (2018) Riverbanks as battlegrounds: Why does 
the abundance of native and invasive plants vary? Ecosystems,  DOI: 
https://doi.org/10.1007/s10021- 018-0288- 3. 
 
Pictures  Impatiens glandulifera.  https://gd.eppo.int/taxon/IPAGL/photos  
 EPPO Reporting Service 2018  no. 8 – Invasive Plant s 
 
 
 15 Additional key words:  invasive alien plants  Computer codes: IMPAL , GB  
 
 
 
2018/ 169 Broad associations between Pennisetum setaceum  and arbuscular 
mycorrhizal fungi support invasions  
 
Pennisetum setaceum (EPPO List of Invasive Alien Plants) is a mycorrhizal C4 Poaceae, native 
to Northeast Africa and the Middle East.  This perennial bunch grass has a rapid growth and 
high tolerance to drought and arid conditions.  In Spain,  its ornamental use in gardens has 
caused its naturalization and spread to the surrounding ruderal habitats. It is a very aggressive 
plant forming monospecific stands and outcompeting native plants by reducing available space 
and taking scarce water and nutrients. It also increases fuel loads, and becomes extremely 
inflammable in winter, increasing the intensity and spread of fire, resulting in severe damage 
to native dry forest species which are adapted to less extreme fire regimes.  The present 
study compared the arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) communities hosted by P. setaceum 
with those from the co -occurrin g native Hyparrhenia hirta at five sites with different edaphic 
characteristics.  Illumina technology was used to investigate AMF colonisation  in the roots and 
a subsequent multivariate analysis showed that although there were differences in AMF 
communitie s between sites, native and non- native host plants shared a similar AMF 
composition .  The results suggest that in the invaded range, P. setaceum is flexible in its 
association with local AMF and this may support the species in finding suitable niches in a 
variety of ecosystems outside its native range.  
 
Source:  Rodríguez -Caballero, Roldan FCA (2018) The unspecificity of the relationships 
between the invasive Pennisetum setaceum  and mycorrhizal fungi may provide 
advantages during its establishment at semiarid Mediterranean sites. Science of the 
total environment  630, 1464 -1471.  
Additional key words:  invasive alien plants  Computer codes: HYRHI, PESSA , ES   
 
 
 
2018/ 170 Evaluating the status of eucalypt  species in South Africa  
 
Risk analysis was conducted for 16 eucalypt species ( Eucalyptus and Corymbia  species listed 
in the table below ) cultivated in Brazil using a protocol adapted from an Australian model to 
Brazilian conditions.  The risk assessment protocol consisted of 45 questions divided into 8 
topics: cultivation, climate, records of occurrence and invasion, undesirable attributes, habit 
and competition potential, reproduction, dispersal mechanisms and attributes of persistence.  
Within the risk assessment protocol, each question is scored and a species score can range 
from 0 to 49. Risk is low if the score is between 0 and 8 points, in which case the system 
recommends that the species is accepted for introduction; risk is moderate if the score is 
between 9 and 20 points, which means the species behaves as a ruderal and may become 
invasive (or not), creating uncertainty; and risk is high if the score is between 21 and 49 
points, when the system recommends that the species is not accepted for introduction. 
Results indicate high risk for 7  species, moderate risk for 8  species and low risk for 1  species. 
The only low risk species was E ucalyptus dunnii, while the highest risk scores were obtained 
for Corymbia  torelliana , E. tereticornis and E. grandis. These results are consistent with the 
history of i nvasion of the species around the world and should be considered for plantations 
especially when investment capacity to prevent and permanently control spread is low or not 
associated with forest certi fication standards.  
 EPPO Reporting Service 2018  no. 8 – Invasive Plant s 
 
 
 16 Results of risk assessment for 16 species of Eucalyptus and Corymbia  introduced to 
Brazil  
 
Species  Risk level  Score  
Eucalyptus dunnii  Low 5 
Eucalyptus cloeziana  Moderate  9 
Eucalyptus benthamii  Moderate  11 
Eucalyptus viminalis  Moderate  11 
Eucalyptus pellita  Moderate  13 
Corymbia maculata  Moderate  14 
Eucalyptus globulus  Moderate  18 
Eucalyptus urophylla  Moderate  18 
Corymbia citriodora  Moderate  20 
Eucalyptus brassiana  High 21 
Eucalyptus camaldulensis High 22 
Eucalyptus robusta  High 22 
Eucalyptus saligna  High 22 
Corymbia torelliana  High 24 
Eucalyptus tereticornis  High 24 
Eucalyptus grandis  High 26 
 
 
Source:  Ziller SR, Sa Dechoum M, Zenni  RD (2018) Predicting invasion risk of 16 species of 
eucalypts using a risk assessment protocol developed for Brazil. Austral Ecology , DOI: 
10.1111/aec.12649  
Additional key words:  invasive alien plants  Computer codes: EUCDU, EUCCI, EUCBN, EUCSA, EUCRO, 
EUCCM, EUCCZ, EUCBE, EUCGL, EUCPJ, EUCMA, EUCGD, EUCTR, 
EUCUP, EUCVI, KMBTO , BR