EFSA identifies 12 bark and ambrosia beetle species posing high risk to EU plant health

EFSA identifies 12 bark and ambrosia beetle species posing high risk to EU plant health

The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA), in collaboration with the University of Padua (Italy), has identified 12 species of bark and ambrosia beetles that pose a high economic or environmental risk to plant health in the EU territory. The beetles, which attack broadleaved trees, are currently absent or not yet widespread in the EU and meet the criteria for classification as potential Union quarantine pests (QPs).

Part of the subfamily of bark and ambrosia beetles known as Scolytinae, this high-risk group of pests could enter the EU with wood or wood products, or with plants for planting. Once introduced, they could become established in parts of the EU due to the availability of host plants and climate suitability. Control measures are available to prevent introduction, including importation from pest-free countries, isolation of plants for planting material before trade, and management of growing conditions.

EFSA and the University of Padua identified the 12 as part of a wider investigation into 6,495 beetle species. Even when looking at the larger group, there is still considerable uncertainty about the potential impact of many species that have not been extensively studied. There is also a lack of reliable identification methods for many species, which poses a challenge for their identification during import controls at EU borders.

Background and next steps

EFSA's pest categorisation is the first step in the risk assessment process. The European Commission and EU Member States may request EFSA to carry out a quantitative assessment of the pest's risk to inform decisions on possible quarantine listing and the implementation of risk mitigation options under EU legislation.

#PlantHealth4Life campaign

With plant pests and diseases posing a significant economic and social threat to Europe, EFSA is running the #PlantHealth4Life campaign in partnership with the European Commission and EU Member States. Backed by a comprehensive analysis of attitudes and behaviours towards plant health across the EU, this multi-year initiative aims to raise awareness among European citizens about the importance of plant health and everyone's responsibility to safeguard it.

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