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Liriomyza bryoniae is currently Q-rated. A permanent pest rating proposal is required to support an official pest rating.
History & Status:
Background: Adult Liriomyza bryoniae are small (approximately 2 mm in length) flies that are yellow, brown, and black in color. (Spencer, 1973). This fly is a pest in field crops and in greenhouses. An unusually broad range (for an agromyzid) of plant families are attacked, including Apiaceae, Asteraceae, Brassicaceae, Capparaceae, Caryophyllaceae, Chenopodaceae, Cucurbitaceae, Fabaceae, Malvaceae, and Solanaceae, among others (Spencer, 1990). Economically-significant host plants include tomato, cucumber, melons, beans, parsley, coriander, lettuce, squash, spinach, peppers, petunias, and chrysanthemum (Elkhouly et al., 2015; Masetti et al., 2004; Minkenberg and Van Lenteren, 1986; Shiao, 2004; Tran, 2009; Van Der Linden, 1993). Reproductive potential is high. Individual females have been reported to lay up to 183 eggs (Tokumaru and Abe, 2003). The eggs are laid in leaves that then serve as food for the larvae. The larvae are legless and cream to yellow-orange in color, and tunnel or “mine” between the upper and lower epidermal layers of the leaf. The mines are not associated with the leaf veins (as in some other agromyzid species), except sometimes the midrib, and sometimes form secondary blotch mines. The larvae exit the leaf to pupate, presumably in soil like most Liriomyza species (Collins and Anderson, 2016; Pitkin et al., 2017; Spencer, 1973). Larval feeding damage can kill the leaves and sometimes the entire plant, especially if it is young (Spencer, 1973). Some Liriomyza species are known to vector plant viruses, although it is not known if L. bryoniae does (Zitter and Tsai, 2013), and some agromyzids are known to vector plant pathogenic fungi (Mathew et al., 2015).
Worldwide Distribution: Liriomyza bryoniae is widely distributed and present from Europe and northern Africa east to East Asia. It is apparently native to southern Europe; the other areas it is found in (including northern Europe, where it is found mainly in greenhouses) are presumed to represent introductions (CABI, 2018; Minkenberg and Van Lenteren, 1986; Spencer, 1973).
Official Control: Liriomyza bryoniae is listed as a high priority pest in Australia and it is considered Reportable by the USDA-APHIS.
California Distribution: Liriomyza bryoniae is not known to be present in California (Symbiota Collections of Arthropods Network).
California Interceptions: Liriomyza bryoniae may have been intercepted on Polemonium sp. from Washington in September, 2002. This identification was tentative (California Department of Food and Agriculture).
The risk Liriomyza bryoniae would pose to California is evaluated below.
1) Climate/Host Interaction: Liriomyza bryoniae is widely distributed, suggesting it is tolerant of a wide range of conditions. Although it does not tolerate the very cold temperatures found in northern Europe, as shown by its apparent restriction to greenhouses there, it has been shown to successfully overwinter and survive frost in the Netherlands (Van der Linden, 1993). It seems likely that the climate of a large portion of California would be suitable for this fly. This species is highly polyphagous, and known host plants occur over much of the state. Therefore, Liriomyza bryoniae receives a High (3) in this category.
– Low (1) Not likely to establish in California; or likely to establish in very limited areas.
– Medium (2) may be able to establish in a larger but limited part of California.
– High (3) likely to establish a widespread distribution in California.
2) Known Pest Host Range: Liriomyza bryoniae is highly polyphagous and has been reported to feed on plants in at least 16 families. Therefore, it receives a High (3) in this category.
– Low (1) has a very limited host range.
– Medium (2) has a moderate host range.
– High (3) has a wide host range.
3) Pest Reproductive and Dispersal Potential: Liriomyza bryoniae, like other agromyzids is a strong flier, and the larvae could possibly be moved with infested plant material. The species has high reproductive potential, with individual females laying up to 183 eggs each. Therefore, it receives a High (3) in this category.
– Low (1) does not have high reproductive or dispersal potential.
– Medium (2) has either high reproductive or dispersal potential.
– High (3) has both high reproduction and dispersal potential.
4) Economic Impact: Feeding by larvae of Liriomyza bryoniae impacts numerous vegetable crops, including tomato, peppers and cucumber. This damage could lower crop yield and increase production costs. The presence of this species in crop fields could trigger the loss of markets. Therefore, it receives a High (3) in this category.
Economic Impact: A, B, C
A. The pest could lower crop yield.
B. The pest could lower crop value (includes increasing crop production costs).
C. The pest could trigger the loss of markets (includes quarantines).
D. The pest could negatively change normal cultural practices.
E. The pest can vector, or is vectored, by another pestiferous organism.
F. The organism is injurious or poisonous to agriculturally important animals.
G. The organism can interfere with the delivery or supply of water for agricultural uses.
Economic Impact Score: 3
– Low (1) causes 0 or 1 of these impacts.
– Medium (2) causes 2 of these impacts.
– High (3) causes 3 or more of these impacts.
5) Environmental Impact: Liriomyza bryoniae is a pest of vegetables, including tomato, peppers and cucumber. Infestations of this fly could impact home gardens and trigger treatments. Therefore, it receives a High (3) in this category.
Evaluate the environmental impact of the pest on California using the criteria below.
Environmental Impact: D, E
A. The pest could have a significant environmental impact such as lowering biodiversity, disrupting natural communities, or changing ecosystem processes.
B. The pest could directly affect threatened or endangered species.
C. The pest could impact threatened or endangered species by disrupting critical habitats.
D. The pest could trigger additional official or private treatment programs.
E. The pest significantly impacts cultural practices, home/urban gardening or ornamental plantings.
Environmental Impact Score: 3
– Low (1) causes none of the above to occur.
– Medium (2) causes one of the above to occur.
– High (3) causes two or more of the above to occur.
Add up the total score and include it here.
–Low = 5-8 points
–Medium = 9-12 points
–High = 13-15 points
6) Post Entry Distribution and Survey Information: Liriomyza bryoniae is not known to be present in California. It receives a Not established (0) in this category.
–Not established (0) Pest never detected in California, or known only from incursions.
–Low (-1) Pest has a localized distribution in California, or is established in one suitable climate/host area (region).
–Medium (-2) Pest is widespread in California but not fully established in the endangered area, or pest established in two contiguous suitable climate/host areas.
–High (-3) Pest has fully established in the endangered area, or pest is reported in more than two contiguous or non-contiguous suitable climate/host areas.
7) The final score is the consequences of introduction score minus the post entry distribution and survey information score: High (15)
The most significant uncertainty in this proposal is the potential for Liriomyza bryoniae to significantly impact crop plants. Although death of seedlings is reported to occur, little quantitative information was found regarding the damage inflicted by this fly. It is possible that this fly would have a more significant impact in California than it does in the Old World, because it is presumably somewhat controlled by natural enemies that are present in Europe but not in California.
Liriomyza bryoniae is a polyphagous pest of vegetables and horticultural plants in fields and greenhouses. It is not known to be present in California. For these reasons, an “A” rating is justified.
Benker, U. 2012. Monochamus alternatus – The next alien causing trouble. Forstschutz Aktuell 55:34-37.
CABI. 2018. Liriomyza bryoniae. CAB International. Accessed May 23, 2018: https://www.cabi.org/cpc/datasheet/30950
California Department of Food and Agriculture. 2018. Pest and damage record database. Accessed April 18, 2018: https://pdr.cdfa.ca.gov/PDR/pdrmainmenu.aspx
Collins, D. and Anderson, H. 2016. Liriomyza species – leaf mining flies. Plant Pest Factsheet. Department for Environment Food & Rural Affairs.
Elkhouly, A. R., Albasha, M. O., and Hririg, A. L. 2015. Population abundance of the ectoparasitoid Diglyphus isaea Walker (Hymenoptera: Eulophidae) on tomato leaf miner Liriomyza bryonia. (Kaltenbach) (Diptera: Agromyzidae) on some winter host plants in Alejelat Region, Libya. Journal of Agricultural Engineering and Biotechnology 3:41-45.
Masetti, A., Lanzoni, A., Burgio, G., and Süss, L. 2004. Faunistic Study of the Agromyzidae (Diptera) on weeds of marginal areas in northern Italy agroecosystems. Annals of the Entomological Society of America 97:1252-1262.
Mathew, F. M., Prasifka, J. R., Gaimari, S. D., Shi, L., Markell, S. G. and Gulya, T. J. 2015. Rhizopus oryzae associated with Melanagromyza splendida and stem disease of sunflowers (Helianthus annuus) in California. Plant Health Progress 16:39–42.
Minkenberg, O. P. J. M. and Van Lenteren, J. C. 1986. The leafminers Liriomyza bryoniae and L. trifolii (Diptera: Agromyzidae), their parasites and host plants: A review. Agricultural University Wageningen Papers 86-2:1-50.
Pitkin, B., Ellis, W., Plant, C., and Edmunds, R. 2017. Liriomyza bryoniae (Kaltenbach, 1858). The leaf and stem mines of British flies and other insects. Accessed May 15, 2018: http://www.ukflymines.co.uk/Flies/Liriomyza_bryoniae.php
Shiao, S. -F. 2004. Morphological diagnosis of six Liriomyza species (Diptera: Agromyzidae) of quarantine importance in Taiwan. Applied Entomology and Zoology 39:27-39.
Spencer, K.A. 1973. Agromyzidae (Diptera) of Economic Importance. Springer.
Spencer, K.A. 1990. Host Specialization in the World Agromyzidae (Diptera). Kluwer Academic Publishers, Dordrecht, Netherlands.
Symbiota Collections of Arthropods Network. Accessed May 18, 2018: http://scan1.acis.ufl.edu
Tokumaru, S., and Abe, Y. 2003. Effects of temperature and photoperiod on development and reproductive potential of Liriomyza sativae, L. trifolii, and L. bryoniae (Diptera: Agromyzidae). Japanese Journal of Applied Entomology and Zoology 47:143-152.
Tran, D. H. 2009. Agromyzid leafminers and their parasitoids on vegetables in central Vietnam. Journal of the International Society for Southeast Asian Agricultural Sciences 15:21-33.
Van der Linden, A. 1993. Overwintering of Liriomyza bryoniae and Liriomyza huidobrensis (Diptera: Agromyzidae) in the Netherlands. Proceedings of the section Experimental and Applied Entomology of the Netherlands Entomological Society 4:145-150.
Zitter, T. A. and Tsai, J. H. 2013. Flies. pp. 165-176 in K.F. Harris and K. Maramorosch (eds.), Vectors of Plant Pathogens. Academic Press, New York, NY.
Kyle Beucke, 1220 N Street, Room 221, Sacramento, CA, 95814, 916-403-6741; plant.health[@]cdfa.ca.gov.
Jason Leathers, 2800 Gateway Oaks, Sacramento CA 95833, (916) 654-1211, plant.health[@]cdfa.ca.gov
7/24/18 – 9/07/18
You must be registered and logged in to post a comment. If you have registered and have not received the registration confirmation, please contact us at plant.health[@]cdfa.ca.gov.
♦ Comments should refer to the appropriate California Pest Rating Proposal Form subsection(s) being commented on, as shown below.
Example Comment:
Consequences of Introduction: 1. Climate/Host Interaction: [Your comment that relates to “Climate/Host Interaction” here.]
♦ Posted comments will not be able to be viewed immediately.
♦ Comments may not be posted if they:
Contain inappropriate language which is not germane to the pest rating proposal;
Contains defamatory, false, inaccurate, abusive, obscene, pornographic, sexually oriented, threatening, racially offensive, discriminatory or illegal material;
Violates agency regulations prohibiting sexual harassment or other forms of discrimination;
Violates agency regulations prohibiting workplace violence, including threats.
♦ Comments may be edited prior to posting to ensure they are entirely germane.
♦ Posted comments shall be those which have been approved in content and posted to the website to be viewed, not just submitted.
Posted by ls
Cecidomyia pini is currently Q-rated. A permanent pest rating proposal is required to support an official pest rating.
Background: Adult Cecidomyia pini are delicate flies with a brown-black color (DeGeer, 1776). The size was not found by the author of this proposal, but adults of other Cecidomyia species are 2-5 mm in length. The larvae of C. pini are yellow-red in color and are found on needles of Abies (fir), Picea (spruce), and Pinus (pine) species. The larvae apparently feed on accumulations of resin on the needles (Barnes, 1951). Gagné (1978) stated that Cecidomyia species are “primary feeders and cause extensive damage to pines.” However, the literature is equivocal regarding the impact of C. pini on host trees. Barnes (1951) considered C. pini not to be economically significant. It is possible that C. pini feeds on resin that is released from pre-existing injuries, for example, feeding damage caused by another insect (Barnes, 1951; Felt, 1906). Two sources suggest that C. pini causes damage to pine cones, including the death of cones and the loss of seeds (Dormont et al.; 1996; Roques et al., 2017). Other species of Cecidomyia are reported to cause damage to pines, including gall-like deformities (California Forest Pest Control Action Council, 1968; Ferrell et al., 1987; Gagné, 1978; Reeks, 1960). The larvae of Cecidomyia pini build cocoons on the needles and pupate in them.
Worldwide Distribution: Cecidomyia pini is found in northern and central Europe (Gagné and Jaschhof, 2017).
Official Control: Cecidomyia pini is not known to be under official control anywhere.
California Distribution: Cecidomyia pini is not known to be present in California (Symbiota Collections of Arthropods Network).
California Interceptions: Cecidomyia pini may have been intercepted on conifer wood dunnage intercepted in San Francisco in 1987 (CDFA Pest and Damage Report Database, 2018).
The risk Cecidomyia pini would pose to California is evaluated below.
1) Climate/Host Interaction: Cecidomyia pini is reported from a large area, including much of Europe. This suggests that the climate of much of California would be suitable for the species. Cecidomyia pini is known to feed on at least three conifer genera, including Pinus, and there may be suitable host trees throughout California. It is likely that pini could become established over a large portion of California. Therefore, C. pini receives a High (3) in this category.
– Low (1) Not likely to establish in California; or likely to establish in very limited areas.
– Medium (2) may be able to establish in a larger but limited part of California.
– High (3) likely to establish a widespread distribution in California.
2) Known Pest Host Range: Cecidomyia pini is known to feed on at least three genera of coniferous trees. Therefore, it receives a Medium (2) in this category.
– Low (1) has a very limited host range.
– Medium (2) has a moderate host range.
– High (3) has a wide host range.
3) Pest Reproductive and Dispersal Potential: Adult pini presumably fly, although it is not known how far they are capable of flying. Therefore, it receives a Medium (2) in this category.
– Low (1) does not have high reproductive or dispersal potential.
– Medium (2) has either high reproductive or dispersal potential.
– High (3) has both high reproduction and dispersal potential.
4) Economic Impact: Cecidomyia pini has been reported to impact pine seed production (but see Uncertainty, below). If this species became established in California, it could impact regeneration of pine trees, which could impact timber yield. Therefore, it receives a Low (1) in this category.
Economic Impact: A
A. The pest could lower crop yield.
B. The pest could lower crop value (includes increasing crop production costs).
C. The pest could trigger the loss of markets (includes quarantines).
D. The pest could negatively change normal cultural practices.
E. The pest can vector, or is vectored, by another pestiferous organism.
F. The organism is injurious or poisonous to agriculturally important animals.
G. The organism can interfere with the delivery or supply of water for agricultural uses.
Economic Impact Score: 1
– Low (1) causes 0 or 1 of these impacts.
– Medium (2) causes 2 of these impacts.
– High (3) causes 3 or more of these impacts.
5) Environmental Impact: Cecidomyia pini is reported to impact pine seed production (but see Uncertainty, below). If this species became established in California, it could threaten rare pines, including Bolander’s beach pine (Pinus contorta bolanderi) and Torrey pine (Pinus torreyana torreyana) (Calflora). Therefore, it receives a Medium (2) in this category.
Evaluate the environmental impact of the pest on California using the criteria below.
Environmental Impact: B
A. The pest could have a significant environmental impact such as lowering biodiversity, disrupting natural communities, or changing ecosystem processes.
B. The pest could directly affect threatened or endangered species.
C. The pest could impact threatened or endangered species by disrupting critical habitats.
D. The pest could trigger additional official or private treatment programs.
E. The pest significantly impacts cultural practices, home/urban gardening or ornamental plantings.
Environmental Impact Score: 2
– Low (1) causes none of the above to occur.
– Medium (2) causes one of the above to occur.
– High (3) causes two or more of the above to occur.
Add up the total score and include it here.
–Low = 5-8 points
–Medium = 9-12 points
–High = 13-15 points
6) Post Entry Distribution and Survey Information: Cecidomyia pini is not known to be present in California. It receives a Not established (0) in this category.
–Not established (0) Pest never detected in California, or known only from incursions.
–Low (-1) Pest has a localized distribution in California, or is established in one suitable climate/host area (region).
–Medium (-2) Pest is widespread in California but not fully established in the endangered area, or pest established in two contiguous suitable climate/host areas.
–High (-3) Pest has fully established in the endangered area, or pest is reported in more than two contiguous or non-contiguous suitable climate/host areas.
7) The final score is the consequences of introduction score minus the post entry distribution and survey information score: Medium (10)
The most important uncertainty in this proposal is the potential for C. pini to impact plants. The biology of this species does not appear to be well-known. Two sources (cited above) suggest that this species causes damage to pine cones, resulting in loss of seeds. This species is very widely distributed, and it seems likely that it is not causing significant damage in its current range if only for the fact that there are so few reports of damage. It is not known if natural enemies in its native range (which may not be present in California) regulate the amount of damage inflicted by C. pini. It is possible that the damage to the pine cones in the reported cases was caused by another insect and this damage was blamed on the C. pini, which could have simply taken advantage of the release of resin. It is possible that C. pini poses no threat, economic or environmental, to California.
Cecidomyia pini is a widespread European fly that is not known to occur in California. It feeds on conifer resin on living trees, and reports suggest that it causes damage to trees. Because of the possibility of damage to living conifers in California, this species may pose an economic and environmental threat to this state. For these reasons, an “A” rating is justified.
Barnes, H. F. 1951. Gall midges of economic importance, Volume V: Gall midges of trees. Crosby Lockwood & Son Ltd., London.
Calflora: Information on California plants for education, research and conservation, with data contributed by public and private institutions and individuals, including the Consortium of California Herbaria. Accessed March 26, 2017: http://www.calflora.org
California Forest Pest Control Action Council. 1968. Forest pest conditions on California – 1967. California Division of Forestry.
DeGeer, C. 1776. Memoires pour server a l’histoire des insectes, Volume 6. Pierre Hesselberg, Stockholm.
Ferrell, G. T., Bedard, W. D., and Jenkinson, J. L. 1987. Gouty pitch midge damage to ponderosa pines planted on fertile and infertile soils in the western Sierra Nevada. United States Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Pacific Southwest Forest and Range Experiment Station, Research Note PSW-390.
Gagné, R. J. 1978. A systematic analysis of the pine pitch midges, Cecidomyia spp. (Diptera: Cecidomyiidae). United States Department of Agriculture Technical Bulletin 1575:1-18.
Gagné, R. J. and Jaschhof, M. 2017. A catalog of Cecidomyiidae (Diptera) of the world, 4th edition. Accessed April 25, 2018: https://www.ars.usda.gov/ARSUserFiles/80420580/Gagne_2017_World_Cat_4th_ed.pdf
Reeks, W. A. 1960. Observations on the life history, distribution, and abundance of two species of Cecidomyia (Diptera, Cecidomyiidae) on jack pine in Manitoba and Saskatchewan. The Canadian Entomologist 92:154-160.
Roques, A., Talgø, V., Fan, J. -T., and Auger-Rozenberg, M. -A. 2017. Damage to flowers, cones and seeds of coniferous woody plants. Pp. 89-223 in Roques, A., Cleary, M., Matsiakh, I., and Eschen, R. (eds.), Field Guide for the Identification of Damage on Woody Sentinel Plants. CABI, Oxfordshire, United Kingdom.
Symbiota Collections of Arthropods Network. Accessed March 26, 2017: http://scan1.acis.ufl.edu
Kyle Beucke, 1220 N Street, Room 221, Sacramento, CA, 95814, 916-403-6741; plant.health[@]cdfa.ca.gov.
Jason Leathers, 2800 Gateway Oaks, Sacramento CA 95833, (916) 654-1211, plant.health[@]cdfa.ca.gov
6/27/18 – 8/11/18
You must be registered and logged in to post a comment. If you have registered and have not received the registration confirmation, please contact us at plant.health[@]cdfa.ca.gov.
♦ Comments should refer to the appropriate California Pest Rating Proposal Form subsection(s) being commented on, as shown below.
Example Comment:
Consequences of Introduction: 1. Climate/Host Interaction: [Your comment that relates to “Climate/Host Interaction” here.]
♦ Posted comments will not be able to be viewed immediately.
♦ Comments may not be posted if they:
Contain inappropriate language which is not germane to the pest rating proposal;
Contains defamatory, false, inaccurate, abusive, obscene, pornographic, sexually oriented, threatening, racially offensive, discriminatory or illegal material;
Violates agency regulations prohibiting sexual harassment or other forms of discrimination;
Violates agency regulations prohibiting workplace violence, including threats.
♦ Comments may be edited prior to posting to ensure they are entirely germane.
♦ Posted comments shall be those which have been approved in content and posted to the website to be viewed, not just submitted.
Posted by ls
On July 12, 2016 USDA inquired if states were interested in surveying for Phytomyza gymnostoma (Allium leafminer). A pest rating proposal is required to determine a permanent rating for this pest.
Background: Phytomyza gymnostoma is a leafmining fly that feeds on plants in the genus Allium including leeks (Allium porrum), onion (Allium cepa), garlic (Allium sativum), chive (Allium schoenoprasum), shallot (Allium cepa), and green onion (Allium fistulosum)1. The flies overwinter as pupae in plant leaves or bulbs or soil1. In Pennsylvania adult flies emerge from March through May and females lay eggs at the base of plant stems1. Larvae mine leaves, moving into the base of leaves or bulbs to pupate1. This feeding causes leaves to become distorted1. A second generation of adults emerges in September and October1. Adult females also puncture tissue to feed on the plants, opening them up to invasion by secondary decay organisms1. Allium leafminer may be transported long distances when infested plants, bulbs, or soil is moved.
Worldwide Distribution: Phytomyza gymnostoma is native to Poland and Germany1. It recently started to expand its range and has spread throughout Europe, to Turkey, Russia, and Turkmenistan1. The flies were first detected in the Western Hemisphere in Pennsylvania in December 2015.
Official Control: Phytomyza gymnostoma is listed as a harmful organism by Chile, Costa Rica, and Peru3.
California Distribution: Phytomyza gymnostoma has never been found in the environment of California.
California Interceptions: Phytomyza gymnostoma has never been intercepted by California.
The risk Phytomyza gymnostoma (Allium leafminer) would pose to California is evaluated below.
1) Climate/Host Interaction: Phytomyza gymnostoma is expected to be able to establish a widespread distribution in California wherever Allium plants grow. It receives a High (3) in this category.
Evaluate if the pest would have suitable hosts and climate to establish in California. Score:
– Low (1) Not likely to establish in California; or likely to establish in very limited areas.
– Medium (2) may be able to establish in a larger but limited part of California.
– High (3) likely to establish a widespread distribution in California.
2) Known Pest Host Range: Phytomyza gymnostoma is only known to feed on plants in the genus Allium. It receives a Low (1) in this category.
Evaluate the host range of the pest. Score:
– Low (1) has a very limited host range.
– Medium (2) has a moderate host range.
– High (3) has a wide host range.
3) Pest Dispersal Potential: Agromyzid flies have high reproductive potential and Phytomyza gymnostoma can rapidly spread long distances when infested bulbs are moved. It receives a High (3) in this category.
Evaluate the natural and artificial dispersal potential of the pest. Score:
– Low (1) does not have high reproductive or dispersal potential.
– Medium (2) has either high reproductive or dispersal potential.
– High (3) has both high reproduction and dispersal potential.
4) Economic Impact: California is the largest producing state in the U.S. of garlic, onions, and green onions. The state produces 90%+ of the commercial garlic, is the largest producer of processing onions, and is one of the top fresh market onion producers2. Both garlic and onion crops are valued at $150-$300 million each annually2. California also leads the nation in the production of green onions with a 2009 crop value of $28 million in Monterey and Riverside county alone4. If Phytomyza gymnostoma were to establish in California it is expected to lower crop yields and increase production costs of these crops, especially on organic farms. Infestation rates of 20 to 100 pupae per plant and 100% of plants in a field have been reported1. Its presence in the state would likely affect markets for fresh garlic and onions. Growers in other places infested with Allium leafminer have changed cultural practices including delaying planting until after the leafminer flight, covering fall plantings, and separating crops by large distances1. The leafminer is not expected to vector other organisms, injure animals, or interfere with water supplies. Phytomyza gymnostoma receives a High (3) in this category.
Evaluate the economic impact of the pest to California using the criteria below. Score:
A. The pest could lower crop yield.
B. The pest could lower crop value (includes increasing crop production costs).
C. The pest could trigger the loss of markets (includes quarantines).
D. The pest could negatively change normal cultural practices.
E. The pest can vector, or is vectored, by another pestiferous organism.
F. The organism is injurious or poisonous to agriculturally important animals.
G. The organism can interfere with the delivery or supply of water for agricultural uses.
– Low (1) causes 0 or 1 of these impacts.
– Medium (2) causes 2 of these impacts.
– High (3) causes 3 or more of these impacts.
5) Environmental Impact: If Phytomyza gymnostoma were to establish in California it is not expected to lower biodiversity, disrupt natural communities, or change ecosystem processes. It is likely to affect threatened and endangered species such as Munz’s onion (Allium munzii) and Yosemite onion (Allium yosemitense). Allium leafminer would not be expected to disrupt critical habitats. It is likely to trigger additional treatment programs in agriculture and in residential gardens. Species of Allium are grown in home/urban gardens and would be significantly affected by this pest. Phytomyza gymnostoma receives a High (3) in this category.
Evaluate the environmental impact of the pest on California using the criteria below.
A. The pest could have a significant environmental impact such as lowering biodiversity, disrupting natural communities, or changing ecosystem processes.
B. The pest could directly affect threatened or endangered species.
C. The pest could impact threatened or endangered species by disrupting critical habitats.
D. The pest could trigger additional official or private treatment programs.
E. The pest significantly impacts cultural practices, home/urban gardening or ornamental plantings.
Score the pest for Environmental Impact. Score:
– Low (1) causes none of the above to occur.
– Medium (2) causes one of the above to occur.
– High (3) causes two or more of the above to occur.
Add up the total score and include it here.
–Low = 5-8 points
–Medium = 9-12 points
–High = 13-15 points
6) Post Entry Distribution and Survey Information: Phytomyza gymnostoma has never been found in California and receives a Not established (0) in this category.
Evaluate the known distribution in California. Only official records identified by a taxonomic expert and supported by voucher specimens deposited in natural history collections should be considered. Pest incursions that have been eradicated, are under eradication, or have been delimited with no further detections should not be included.
–Not established (0) Pest never detected in California, or known only from incursions.
–Low (-1) Pest has a localized distribution in California, or is established in one suitable climate/host area (region).
–Medium (-2) Pest is widespread in California but not fully established in the endangered area, or pest established in two contiguous suitable climate/host areas.
–High (-3) Pest has fully established in the endangered area, or pest is reported in more than two contiguous or non-contiguous suitable climate/host areas.
The final score is the consequences of introduction score minus the post entry distribution and survey information score: High (13)
Phytomyza gymnostoma is a new arrival to the Western Hemisphere and is a known pest. There is low uncertainty.
Phytomyza gymnostoma has never been found in California and is expected have significant economic and environmental impacts if it establishes in the state. An “A” rating is justified.
1 Fleisher, Shelby and Tim Elkner. 2016. Pest Alert – Allium Leafminer. Penn State Department of Entomology. http://ento.psu.edu/extension/vegetables/pest-alert-allium-leafminer
2 California Garlic & Onion Research Advisory Board. http://www.cagarlicandonion.com/
3 USDA Phytosanitary Certificate Issuance & Tracking System (PCIT) Phytosanitary Export Database (PExD). https://pcit.aphis.usda.gov/pcit/
4 Smith, Richard, Michael Cahn, Marita Cantwell, Steven Koike, Eric Natwick, and Etaferahu Takele. 2011. Green Onion Production in California. UC Vegetable Research & Information Center Vegetable Production Series. http://anrcatalog.ucanr.edu/pdf/7243.pdf
Jason Leathers, 1220 N Street, Sacramento, CA, 95814, (916) 654-1211, plant.health[@]cdfa.ca.gov.
Posted by ls
June 23, 2015 Dr. Martin Hauser tentatively identified an intercepted insect as Ophiomyia kwansonis. This is the first time this insect has been intercepted by CDFA and a pest rating proposal is required to determine future direction on this insect.
Background: Ophiomyia kwansonis is a leafmining fly that feeds on the leaves of daylilies (Hemerocallis spp.)1,2. Adult female flies typically lay eggs near the tip of the leaf blade1. As larvae feed they create mines that appear as long, prominent, whitish lines1. Larvae pupate in mines, often near the leaf base1. Mining does not kill plants1. Daylily leafminer may be transported long distances when infested daylilies are moved.
Worldwide Distribution: Ophiomyia kwansonis is native to Japan and Taiwan2. In March 2011 it was first found in the United States in a nursery in Florida1 and by 2014 had been found in Alabama, Arkansas, Connecticut, Delaware, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Mississippi, Missouri, New Hampshire, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, and West Virginia2. It has also spread to Europe1.
Official Control: Ophiomyia kwansonis is not listed as a harmful organism by any states or nations3 and is not known to be under official control in any locations.
California Distribution: No official samples of Ophiomyia kwansonis have ever been collected in California. However, there is a published report of a photograph from Irvine (Orange County) that shows a plant that has likely been damaged by the fly4.
California Interceptions: Ophiomyia kwansonis has only been intercepted once by CDFA on a shipment of daylilies (Hemerocalis sp.) from Delaware to Contra Costa County (PDR 070P06223714).
The risk Ophiomyia kwansonis (daylily leafminer) would pose to California is evaluated below.
1) Climate/Host Interaction: Ophiomyia kwansonis is widespread in the eastern United States and it is expected to be able to establish anywhere that daylilies are grown. Daylily leafminer receives a High (3) in this category.
Evaluate if the pest would have suitable hosts and climate to establish in California. Score:
– Low (1) Not likely to establish in California; or likely to establish in very limited areas.
– Medium (2) may be able to establish in a larger but limited part of California.
– High (3) likely to establish a widespread distribution in California.
2) Known Pest Host Range: Ophiomyia kwansonis is only known to feed on daylilies (Hemerocallis) and receives a Low (1) in this category.
Evaluate the host range of the pest. Score:
– Low (1) has a very limited host range.
– Medium (2) has a moderate host range.
– High (3) has a wide host range.
3) Pest Dispersal Potential: Ophiomyia kwansonis has a high reproductive potential. It can complete 2-3 generations per year in cooler climates and breed continuously under warm conditions1,2. The leafminer may disperse locally by flying and may be transported long distances as eggs, larvae, or pupae on infested daylilies. Daylily leafminer receives a High (3) in this category.
Evaluate the natural and artificial dispersal potential of the pest. Score:
– Low (1) does not have high reproductive or dispersal potential.
– Medium (2) has either high reproductive or dispersal potential.
– High (3) has both high reproduction and dispersal potential.
4) Economic Impact: If Ophiomyia kwansonis were to become established in California it is not expected to lower crop yields. It is likely to lower the value of daylily nursery stock by disfiguring plants with its presence. The leafminer is not expected to disrupt any markets, change cultural practices, vector other organisms, injure animals, or interfere with water supplies. Daylily leafminer receives a Low (1) in this category.
Evaluate the economic impact of the pest to California using the criteria below. Score:
A. The pest could lower crop yield.
B. The pest could lower crop value (includes increasing crop production costs).
C. The pest could trigger the loss of markets (includes quarantines).
D. The pest could negatively change normal cultural practices.
E. The pest can vector, or is vectored, by another pestiferous organism.
F. The organism is injurious or poisonous to agriculturally important animals.
G. The organism can interfere with the delivery or supply of water for agricultural uses.
– Low (1) causes 0 or 1 of these impacts.
– Medium (2) causes 2 of these impacts.
– High (3) causes 3 or more of these impacts.
5) Environmental Impact: If daylily leafminer were to become established in California it is not expected to lower biodiversity, disrupt natural communities, or change ecosystem processes. It is not likely to directly affect threatened or endangered species or disrupt critical habitats. In Florida growers are advised to remove and destroy obviously mined leaves1. No new chemical treatment programs are expected. Daylily leafminer is expected to significantly impact daylilies which are common ornamental plants. Ophiomyia kwansonis receives a Medium (2) in this category.
Evaluate the environmental impact of the pest on California using the criteria below.
A. The pest could have a significant environmental impact such as lowering biodiversity, disrupting natural communities, or changing ecosystem processes.
B. The pest could directly affect threatened or endangered species.
C. The pest could impact threatened or endangered species by disrupting critical habitats.
D. The pest could trigger additional official or private treatment programs.
E. The pest significantly impacts cultural practices, home/urban gardening or ornamental plantings.
Score the pest for Environmental Impact. Score:
– Low (1) causes none of the above to occur.
– Medium (2) causes one of the above to occur.
– High (3) causes two or more of the above to occur.
Add up the total score and include it here.
–Low = 5-8 points
–Medium = 9-12 points
–High = 13-15 points
6) Post Entry Distribution and Survey Information: Daylily leafminer has not been found in the environment of California and receives a Not established (0) in this category.
Evaluate the known distribution in California. Only official records identified by a taxonomic expert and supported by voucher specimens deposited in natural history collections should be considered. Pest incursions that have been eradicated, are under eradication, or have been delimited with no further detections should not be included.
–Not established (0) Pest never detected in California, or known only from incursions.
–Low (-1) Pest has a localized distribution in California, or is established in one suitable climate/host area (region).
–Medium (-2) Pest is widespread in California but not fully established in the endangered area, or pest established in two contiguous suitable climate/host areas.
–High (-3) Pest has fully established in the endangered area, or pest is reported in more than two contiguous or non-contiguous suitable climate/host areas.
The final score is the consequences of introduction score minus the post entry distribution and survey information score: Medium (10)
Eggs and young larvae of daylily leafminer are very difficult to detect in visual inspections. Given the wide distribution of the fly in the eastern United States and rapidity of its spread it is possible some of the flies may have already entered California.
Ophiomyia kwansonis has not been found in California and is expected to have significant impacts on the nursery industry and ornamental plantings if it becomes established in the state. A “B” rating is justified.
1 Steck, Gary J. and Gaye L. Williams. 2013. Daylily Leafminer, Ophiomyia kwansonis Sasakawa (Diptera: Agromyzidae), new to North America, including Florida. Pest Alert. Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, Division of Plant Industry. DACS-P-01807. http://freshfromflorida.s3.amazonaws.com/ophiomyia-kwansonis.pdf
2 Bethke, James A. 2014. Insect Hot Topics: Daylily leafminers. UCNFA News. http://ucanr.edu/sites/UCNFAnews/Insect_Hot_Topics/Daylily_leafminers/
3 USDA Phytosanitary Certificate Issuance & Tracking System (PCIT) Phytosanitary Export Database (PExD). https://pcit.aphis.usda.gov/pcit/
4 Williams, Gaye L. and Gary J. Steck. 2014. Ophiomyia kwansonis Sasakawa (Diptera: Agromyzidae), the Daylily Leafminer, an Asian Species Recently Identified in the Continental United States. Proceedings of the Entomological Society of Washington 116(4): 421-428.
Jason Leathers, 1220 N Street, Sacramento, CA, 95814, (916) 654-1211, plant.health[@]cdfa.ca.gov.
♦ Comments should refer to the appropriate California Pest Rating Proposal Form subsection(s) being commented on, as shown below.
Example Comment:
Consequences of Introduction: 1. Climate/Host Interaction: [Your comment that relates to “Climate/Host Interaction” here.]
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♦ Comments may not be posted if they:
Contain inappropriate language which is not germane to the pest rating proposal;
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Posted by ls
Image Citation: Darren J. Obbard (obbardlab)
On July 29, 2015 Dr. Stephen Gaimari confirmed the identification of Zaprionus indianus from a sample submitted by a resident in Los Angeles County. This find was soon confirmed by official samples. A pest rating proposal is required to assign a permanent pest rating.
Background: Zaprionus indianus is a generalist small fly that feeds on fallen fruit and fruit on the tree1. In most host species, fruit damage is necessary to allow the fly access to fruit1. However, it is able to attack undamaged figs by laying eggs at the ostiole1. Infestations of Zaprionus indianus may reduce the yield of commercial fig by 40-80%1. Striped vinegar fly may be transported long distances when infested fruit is moved or by researchers who study model organisms in the family Drosophilidae.
Worldwide Distribution: Zaprionus indianus is native to Africa, the Middle East, and southern Eurasia1. It was first found in Brazil in 1999 and rapidly spread through that nation and Uruguay1. It was then found in Mexico in 20022, Panama in 20032, Florida in 20051, Pennsylvania in 20113, Virginia in 20122, and Utah and Oklahoma in 20158. It has also been reported in other states but records are not known to be verifiable (Michigan, Texas, Arizona, California, Mississippi, Louisiana, South Carolina, Wisconsin, and Connecticut)6,9. One author reports that this fly is established “throughout the western USA”7.
Official Control: Zaprionus indianus is listed as a harmful organism by Japan and the Republic of Korea4.
California Distribution: Zaprionus indianus is only confirmed to be established in Los Angeles County.
California Interceptions: Zaprionus indianus has never been intercepted by CDFA.
The risk Zaprionus indianus (Striped vinegar fly) would pose to California is evaluated below.
1) Climate/Host Interaction: Zaprionus indianus has a widespread distribution in eastern North America from Pennsylvania to Florida corresponding with much of California. Striped vinegar fly is likely to establish a widespread distribution in the state and receives a High (3) in this category.
Evaluate if the pest would have suitable hosts and climate to establish in California. Score:
– Low (1) Not likely to establish in California; or likely to establish in very limited areas.
– Medium (2) may be able to establish in a larger but limited part of California.
– High (3) likely to establish a widespread distribution in California.
2) Known Pest Host Range: Zaprionus indianus feeds on a wide variety of damaged fruit. The only undamaged fruit it is known to attack is figs. It receives a Low (1) in this category.
Evaluate the host range of the pest. Score:
– Low (1) has a very limited host range.
– Medium (2) has a moderate host range.
– High (3) has a wide host range.
3) Pest Dispersal Potential: Since it was first found in Brazil in 1999 Zaprionus indianus has rapidly colonized much of the Americas. It breeds continuously under favorable conditions and each female produces many offspring. It can be transported long distances when infested fruit is moved. Striped vinegar fly receives a High (3) in this category.
Evaluate the natural and artificial dispersal potential of the pest. Score:
– Low (1) does not have high reproductive or dispersal potential.
– Medium (2) has either high reproductive or dispersal potential.
– High (3) has both high reproduction and dispersal potential.
4) Economic Impact: California leads the nation in fig production. Growers in the state produce 96% of the nation’s figs on 7,300 acres for a total crop value of $23.1 million5 in 2013. If Zaprionus indianus were to establish in fig production areas it is likely to significantly reduce yields. In South America it is also reported to be an important pest of oranges and peaches but this is probably due to cultural practices where fruit is allowed to over-ripen on the tree2,3. It has also been found to be abundant in eastern U.S. vineyards but has not been documented causing any economic damage3,6. Zaprionus indianus is expected to increase crop production costs in fig orchards, as some fig growers in areas where the fly is established place a sticker over each fruit ostiole as a control measure3 or may treat. Zaprionus indianus also has the potential to disrupt fig and a wide variety of fresh fruit markets as both Japan and Korea list the fly as a harmful organism4. Striped vinegar fly receives a High (3) in this category.
Evaluate the economic impact of the pest to California using the criteria below. Score:
A. The pest could lower crop yield.
B. The pest could lower crop value (includes increasing crop production costs).
C. The pest could trigger the loss of markets (includes quarantines).
D. The pest could negatively change normal cultural practices.
E. The pest can vector, or is vectored, by another pestiferous organism.
F. The organism is injurious or poisonous to agriculturally important animals.
G. The organism can interfere with the delivery or supply of water for agricultural uses.
– Low (1) causes 0 or 1 of these impacts.
– Medium (2) causes 2 of these impacts.
– High (3) causes 3 or more of these impacts.
5) Environmental Impact: If Zaprionus indianus were to establish in California it is not expected to lower biodiversity, disrupt natural communities, or change ecosystem processes. It is not likely to affect any threatened or endangered species or disrupt critical habitats. It may trigger new treatment programs in fig orchards and by residents who grow figs for consumption. Figs are grown in home/urban gardens and will be significantly impacted by this pest. Striped vinegar fly receives a High (3) in this category.
Evaluate the environmental impact of the pest on California using the criteria below.
A. The pest could have a significant environmental impact such as lowering biodiversity, disrupting natural communities, or changing ecosystem processes.
B. The pest could directly affect threatened or endangered species.
C. The pest could impact threatened or endangered species by disrupting critical habitats.
D. The pest could trigger additional official or private treatment programs.
E. The pest significantly impacts cultural practices, home/urban gardening or ornamental plantings.
Score the pest for Environmental Impact. Score:
– Low (1) causes none of the above to occur.
– Medium (2) causes one of the above to occur.
– High (3) causes two or more of the above to occur.
Add up the total score and include it here.
–Low = 5-8 points
–Medium = 9-12 points
–High = 13-15 points
6) Post Entry Distribution and Survey Information: Zaprionus indianus is confirmed to be established in Los Angeles County and is reported to be established in San Diego. It receives a Low (-1) in this category.
Evaluate the known distribution in California. Only official records identified by a taxonomic expert and supported by voucher specimens deposited in natural history collections should be considered. Pest incursions that have been eradicated, are under eradication, or have been delimited with no further detections should not be included.
–Not established (0) Pest never detected in California, or known only from incursions.
–Low (-1) Pest has a localized distribution in California, or is established in one suitable climate/host area (region).
–Medium (-2) Pest is widespread in California but not fully established in the endangered area, or pest established in two contiguous suitable climate/host areas.
–High (-3) Pest has fully established in the endangered area, or pest is reported in more than two contiguous or non-contiguous suitable climate/host areas.
The final score is the consequences of introduction score minus the post entry distribution and survey information score: Medium (12)
It is possible that Zaprionus indianus may be able to expand the range of undamaged fruit it feeds on beyond fig in California.
Zaprionus indianus has established a localized distribution in California and is expected to have significant economic and environmental impacts as it expands its range in California. Impacts are expected to be limited to fig. A “B” rating is justified.
1 Van der Linde, Kim, Gary J. Steck, Ken Hibbard, Jeffry S. Birdsley, Linette M. Alonso, and David Houle. 2006. First records of Zaprionus indianus (Diptera: Drosophilidae), a pest species on commercial fruits from Panama and the Untied States of America. Florida Entomologist 89(3):402-404. http://www.bioone.org/doi/pdf/10.1653/0015-4040%282006%2989%5B402%3AFROZID%5D2.0.CO%3B2
2 Markow, Therese Ann, Giovanni Hanna, Juan R. Riesgo-Escobar, Aldo A. Tellez-Garcia, Maxi Polihronakis Richmond, Nestor O. Nazario-Yepiz, Mariana Ramierez Loustalot Laclette, Javier Carpinteyro-Ponce, and Edward Pfeiler. 2014. Population genetics and recent colonization history of the invasive drosophilid Zaprionus indianus in Mexico and Central America. Biological Invasions 16: 2427-2434. http://link.springer.com/article/10.1007%2Fs10530-014-0674-5#page-2
3 Joshi, Neelendra K., David J. Biddinger, Kathleen Demchak, Alan Deppen. 2014. First report of Zaprionus indianus (Diptera: Drosophilidae) in commercial fruits and vegetables in Pennsylvania. Journal of Insect Science http://jinsectscience.oxfordjournals.org/content/14/1/259
4 USDA Phytosanitary Certificate Issuance & Tracking System (PCIT) Phytosanitary Export Database (PExD). https://pcit.aphis.usda.gov/pcit/
5 California Department of Food & Agriculture. California Agricultural Production Statistics 2014 Report. http://www.cdfa.ca.gov/Statistics/PDFs/CropYearStats2013_NASS.pdf
6 Sigler, Derrek. 2012. New fruit fly spreading across country. FGN Fruit Grower News. http://fruitgrowersnews.com/index.php/magazine/article/new-fruit-fly-spreading-across-country
7 Van der Linde, Kim. 2010. Zaprionus indianus: species identification and taxonomic position. Drosophila Information Service 93:95-98. http://www.ou.edu/journals/dis/DIS93/van%20der%20Linde%2095.pdf
8 Survey Status of Drosophilid Fig Fly – Zaprionus indianus. http://pest.ceris.purdue.edu/capsreview.php?code=IOAPAQA
9 Van det Linde, Kim. Zaprionus indianus: taxonomic position and species identification. http://www.kimvdlinde.com/professional/Zaprionus%20indianus.html
Jason Leathers, 1220 N Street, Sacramento, CA, 95814, (916) 654-1211, plant.health[@]cdfa.ca.gov.
♦ Comments should refer to the appropriate California Pest Rating Proposal Form subsection(s) being commented on, as shown below.
Example Comment:
Consequences of Introduction: 1. Climate/Host Interaction: [Your comment that relates to “Climate/Host Interaction” here.]
♦ Posted comments will not be able to be viewed immediately.
♦ Comments may not be posted if they:
Contain inappropriate language which is not germane to the pest rating proposal;
Contains defamatory, false, inaccurate, abusive, obscene, pornographic, sexually oriented, threatening, racially offensive, discriminatory or illegal material;
Violates agency regulations prohibiting sexual harassment or other forms of discrimination;
Violates agency regulations prohibiting workplace violence, including threats.
♦ Comments may be edited prior to posting to ensure they are entirely germane.
♦ Posted comments shall be those which have been approved in content and posted to the website to be viewed, not just submitted.
Posted by ls
Eumerus figurans is occasionally intercepted by CDFA’s high risk programs and is presently assigned a temporary rating of “Q”. A pest rating proposal is required to assign a permanent pest rating.
Background: Eumerus figurans is a syrphid fly whose larvae feed on various bulbs, corm, and roots1. Female flies are attracted to and lay eggs on injured and rotting bulbs, corms and roots1,2. Larvae are gregarious and hollow out bulbs as they feed2. Damage by the larvae is considered secondary to bacterial and fungal rot organisms1. Known hosts include ginger roots, lily bulbs, narcissus bulbs, decomposing pineapple stumps, and rotting dry land taro1. Larvae of Eumerus figurans may be transported long distances when infested ginger roots or other plant parts are moved.
Worldwide Distribution: The native range of Eumerus figurans is probably the tropical forests of South-east Asia. Walker described the species from Celebes and there are undescribed sibling species present in Thailand, suggesting an evolutionary origin in that region. Eumerus figurans has spread throughout much of Asia and the Southwest Pacific1. It was first found in Hawaii in 19021.
Official Control: Eumerus figurans itself is not known to be under official control by any other states or nations3. However, all members of the genus Eumerus are considered harmful organisms by Bermuda3, Iceland3, and Japan3.
California Distribution: Eumerus figurans has never been found in the environment of California.
California Interceptions: Between January 1, 2000 and December 31, 2014 Eumerus figurans was intercepted 20 times by CDFA’s high risk programs. All interceptions for which data were recorded were on shipments of ginger root from Hawaii.
The risk Eumerus figurans (ginger maggot) would pose to California is evaluated below.
1) Climate/Host Interaction: Ginger grows as a perennial plant in USDA zones 9 through 12. This corresponds with much of California. Eumerus figurans is likely capable of finding injured ginger roots to feed on throughout this area. However, the fly is typically found in humid tropical and subtropical environments. Ginger maggot receives a Medium (2) in this category.
Evaluate if the pest would have suitable hosts and climate to establish in California. Score:
– Low (1) Not likely to establish in California; or likely to establish in very limited areas.
– Medium (2) may be able to establish in a larger but limited part of California.
– High (3) likely to establish a widespread distribution in California.
2) Known Pest Host Range: Eumerus figurans is known to feed on injured ginger roots, lily bulbs, narcissus bulbs, decomposing pineapple stumps, and rotting dry land taro1. It receives a Low (1) in this category.
Evaluate the host range of the pest. Score:
– Low (1) has a very limited host range.
– Medium (2) has a moderate host range.
– High (3) has a wide host range.
3) Pest Dispersal Potential: Species of Eumerus are thought to have 3 generations per year in Israel3. Since California also has a Mediterranean climate Eumerus figurans is likely to have 3 generations per year here. Female flies lay eggs in groups of 10-20 per bulb3, giving them a high reproductive rate. The flies may be transported long distance through the movement of infested plants or plant parts. Eumerus figurans receives a High (3) in this category.
Evaluate the natural and artificial dispersal potential of the pest. Score:
– Low (1) does not have high reproductive or dispersal potential.
– Medium (2) has either high reproductive or dispersal potential.
– High (3) has both high reproduction and dispersal potential.
4) Economic Impact: Eumerus figurans is considered a secondary pest of ginger and there appears to be more literature published on the fly’s role as a pollinator than a pest. It is not expected to lower any crop yields in California. Ginger maggot is likely to be considered a quarantine pest by Iceland3, Bermuda3, and Japan3 and has the potential to disrupt exports of ginger, lily, or narcissus bulbs to those markets. However, Eumerus figurans is unlikely to establish in Iceland and is already present on Nansei Island in Japan. Lost markets may therefore be limited to exports of ginger, lily, and narcissus bulbs to Bermuda. The fly may also increase crop production costs if growers manage populations of the flies. Eumerus figurans is not expected to negatively change normal cultural practices, vector pestiferous organisms, injure animals, or interfere with water supplies. It receives a Medium (2) in this category.
Evaluate the economic impact of the pest to California using the criteria below. Score:
A. The pest could lower crop yield.
B. The pest could lower crop value (includes increasing crop production costs).
C. The pest could trigger the loss of markets (includes quarantines).
D. The pest could negatively change normal cultural practices.
E. The pest can vector, or is vectored, by another pestiferous organism.
F. The organism is injurious or poisonous to agriculturally important animals.
G. The organism can interfere with the delivery or supply of water for agricultural uses.
– Low (1) causes 0 or 1 of these impacts.
– Medium (2) causes 2 of these impacts.
– High (3) causes 3 or more of these impacts.
5) Environmental Impact: If Eumerus figurans were to enter California it is not expected to lower biodiversity, disrupt natural communities, or change ecosystem processes. Ginger maggot is not expected to directly affect threatened or endangered species or disrupt critical habitats. It is possible that the flies could trigger new treatment programs in the nursery industry, ginger gardens, or by residents who consider flies a nuisance. Ginger maggot is not expected to significantly impact cultural practices, home/urban gardening, or ornamental plantings. Eumerus figurans receives a Medium (2) in this category.
Evaluate the environmental impact of the pest on California using the criteria below.
A. The pest could have a significant environmental impact such as lowering biodiversity, disrupting natural communities, or changing ecosystem processes.
B. The pest could directly affect threatened or endangered species.
C. The pest could impact threatened or endangered species by disrupting critical habitats.
D. The pest could trigger additional official or private treatment programs.
E. The pest significantly impacts cultural practices, home/urban gardening or ornamental plantings.
Score the pest for Environmental Impact. Score:
– Low (1) causes none of the above to occur.
– Medium (2) causes one of the above to occur.
– High (3) causes two or more of the above to occur.
Add up the total score and include it here.
– Low = 5-8 points
– Medium = 9-12 points
– High = 13-15 points
6) Post Entry Distribution and Survey Information: Eumerus figurans has never been found in the environment in California and receives a Not established (0) in this category.
Evaluate the known distribution in California. Only official records identified by a taxonomic expert and supported by voucher specimens deposited in natural history collections should be considered. Pest incursions that have been eradicated, are under eradication, or have been delimited with no further detections should not be included.
– Not established (0) Pest never detected in California, or known only from incursions.
– Low (-1) Pest has a localized distribution in California, or is established in one suitable climate/host area (region).
– Medium (-2) Pest is widespread in California but not fully established in the endangered area, or pest established in two contiguous suitable climate/host areas.
– High (-3) Pest has fully established in the endangered area, or pest is reported in more than two contiguous or non-contiguous suitable climate/host areas.
The final score is the consequences of introduction score minus the post entry distribution and survey information score: Medium (10)
There is some speculation that Eumerus figurans might play a role in the spread of bacterial and fungal rot organisms between ginger plants1. If confirmed, this could increase its economic impact.
Eumerus figurans (ginger maggot) has never been found in California. It is expected to have limited economic and environmental impacts if it were to enter the state. A “B” rating is justified.
1 Mau, R.F.L., J.L. Martin Kessing. 1992. Eumerus figurans (Walker). Hawaii Crop Knowledge Master. http://www.extento.hawaii.edu/kbase/crop/type/eumerus.htm
2 Hill, Dennis S. 1987. Agricultural Insect Pests of Temperate Regions and Their Control. CUP Archive. 659pp. https://books.google.com/books?id=3-w8AAAAIAAJ&dq=eumerus+figurans+ginger&source=gbs_navlinks_s
3 USDA Phytosanitary Certificate Issuance & Tracking System (PCIT) Phytosanitary Export Database (PExD). https://pcit.aphis.usda.gov/pcit/
Jason Leathers, 1220 N Street, Sacramento, CA, 95814, (916) 654-1211, plant.health[@]cdfa.ca.gov.
Posted by ls
In August 2014 USDA released a draft pest list for apples and pears from the European Union. Dasineura mali, which is present in Europe, is not on this list. Because the fly presently has a temporary rating of “Q” a pest rating proposal is needed to determine future direction.
Background: Dasineura mali is a small fly that feeds only on species of apples. Adult females lay eggs in leaf folds of immature apple leaves1. After eggs hatch, larval feeding causes the margins of leaves to curl1. Curled leaves become brittle and may fall from the tree1. Heavy infestations may reduce shoot growth, reducing photosynthetic leaf area5. This may stunt growth of nursery stock and newly planted trees. Larvae of the midge sometimes pupate in the calyx of fruit. They can therefore spread long distances by the movement of infested fruit, trees, or other apple plant material.
Worldwide Distribution: Dasineura mali is native to Europe1. It has spread to New Zealand, Argentina, and Canada2. In the United States it has been present in New York and Massachusetts since the 1960’s and was found in Washington State in 19941. The midge has since spread through much of western Washington, but it is not known if it occurs in the major apple production areas east of the Cascades.
Official Control: Dasineura mali is listed as a quarantine pest by China, Taiwan, Japan, Republic of Korea, and Peru3.
California Distribution: Dasineura mali has never been found in the environment of California.
California Interceptions: Dasineura mali has been intercepted by CDFA’s border stations 89 times since 2000, typically as pupae on apple fruit from New Zealand or the Pacific Northwest.
The risk Dasineura mali (apple leaf gall midge) would pose to California is evaluated below.
1) Climate/Host Interaction: Apple trees are commonly grown as ornamentals throughout California and apples are produced commercially in nearly every county in the state4. Dasineura mali is likely to establish wherever apples are grown and receives a High (3) in this category.
Evaluate if the pest would have suitable hosts and climate to establish in California. Score:
– Low (1) Not likely to establish in California; or likely to establish in very limited areas.
– Medium (2) may be able to establish in a larger but limited part of California.
– High (3) likely to establish a widespread distribution in California.
2) Known Pest Host Range: Dasineura mali is only known to feed on species of apple (Malus spp.). It receives a Low (1) in this category.
Evaluate the host range of the pest. Score:
– Low (1) has a very limited host range.
– Medium (2) has a moderate host range.
– High (3) has a wide host range.
3) Pest Dispersal Potential: Dasineura mali has high reproductive potential. There are 2-4 generations per year1, 5, and each female lays many eggs. Although midges are not strong fliers, they may be spread long distances by wind or commerce in infested fruit or plants. Dasineura mali receives a High (3) in this category.
Evaluate the natural and artificial dispersal potential of the pest. Score:
– Low (1) does not have high reproductive or dispersal potential.
– Medium (2) has either high reproductive or dispersal potential.
– High (3) has both high reproduction and dispersal potential.
4) Economic Impact: California is the 2nd largest exporter of apples in the United States and the 5th largest producer4. California growers ship apples to 27 countries4. 14,000 acres are dedicated to apple production and yield a crop valued at over $105,000,0004. If Dasineura mali were to enter California it is probable that it would disrupt export markets due to its habit of pupating in the fruit calyx. It is also likely to increase production costs by triggering new chemical treatments since biological control is often not effective in commercial apple orchards due to the use of broad spectrum insecticides targeting other pests5. Dasineura mali larvae are protected from such applications inside leaf curls5. Fruit yield of mature orchards is usually not reduced by this midge, but they may sometimes have reduced fruit size and fruit bud formation5. Newly planted trees and nursery stock are vulnerable to reduced shoot growth5. Dasineura mali receives a High (3) in this category.
Evaluate the economic impact of the pest to California using the criteria below. Score:
A. The pest could lower crop yield.
B. The pest could lower crop value (includes increasing crop production costs).
C. The pest could trigger the loss of markets (includes quarantines).
D. The pest could negatively change normal cultural practices.
E. The pest can vector, or is vectored, by another pestiferous organism.
F. The organism is injurious or poisonous to agriculturally important animals.
G. The organism can interfere with the delivery or supply of water for agricultural uses.
– Low (1) causes 0 or 1 of these impacts.
– Medium (2) causes 2 of these impacts.
– High (3) causes 3 or more of these impacts.
5) Environmental Impact: Dasineura mali is not expected to lower biodiversity, disrupt natural communities, or change ecosystem processes. It is not expected to directly affect threatened or endangered species or disrupt critical habitat. The midge may trigger additional treatment programs in nurseries, orchards, and residential settings. Apple trees are popular ornamentals and may be disfigured by the presence of this midge. Dasineura mali receives a High (3) in this category.
Evaluate the environmental impact of the pest on California using the criteria below.
A. The pest could have a significant environmental impact such as lowering biodiversity, disrupting natural communities, or changing ecosystem processes.
B. The pest could directly affect threatened or endangered species.
C. The pest could impact threatened or endangered species by disrupting critical habitats.
D. The pest could trigger additional official or private treatment programs.
E. The pest significantly impacts cultural practices, home/urban gardening or ornamental plantings.
Score the pest for Environmental Impact. Score:
– Low (1) causes none of the above to occur.
– Medium (2) causes one of the above to occur.
– High (3) causes two or more of the above to occur.
Add up the total score and include it here.
– Low = 5-8 points
– Medium = 9-12 points
– High = 13-15 points
6) Post Entry Distribution and Survey Information: Dasineura mali has never been found in the environment of California and receives a Not established (0) in this category.
Evaluate the known distribution in California. Only official records identified by a taxonomic expert and supported by voucher specimens deposited in natural history collections should be considered. Pest incursions that have been eradicated, are under eradication, or have been delimited with no further detections should not be included.
– Not established (0) Pest never detected in California, or known only from incursions.
– Low (-1) Pest has a localized distribution in California, or is established in one suitable climate/host area (region).
– Medium (-2) Pest is widespread in California but not fully established in the endangered area, or pest established in two contiguous suitable climate/host areas.
– High (-3) Pest has fully established in the endangered area, or pest is reported in more than two contiguous or non-contiguous suitable climate/host areas.
The final score is the consequences of introduction score minus the post entry distribution and survey information score: High (13)
Dasineura mali was accidentally introduced into New Zealand in 1950 and was fortuitously controlled in orchards by existing treatments6. However, by the mid 1980’s midge populations and damage increased considerably to the point where new chemical treatments were required6. It is possible that damage to orchards in California will be limited until the species adapts to current integrated pest management practices.
Dasineura mali has never been found in California. Its entry to the state may have significant economic and environmental impacts to California’s apple industry and ornamental apple trees. An “A” rating is justified.
1Antonelli, Art and Jenny Glass. 2005. Apple Leaf Curling Midge. WSU Puyallup Plant & Insect Diagnostic Laboratory. http://puyallup.wsu.edu/plantclinic/resources/pdf/pls18appleleafcurlingmidge.pdf
2CAB Direct. Distribution Maps of Plant Pests 2008. http://cabdirect.org/abstracts/20083279226.html;jsessionid=39C077A8B4AABFDE351642AF7450D0FD
3USDA Phytosanitary Certificate Issuance & Tracking System (PCIT) Phytosanitary Export Database (PExD). https://pcit.aphis.usda.gov/pcit/
4California Apple Commission website. http://www.calapple.org/faq.php?n=14&id=7#q3
5Apple Best Practice Guide, Department for Environment Food and Rural Affairs, UK. Horticultural Development Company. http://apples.hdc.org.uk/apple-leaf-midge.asp
6Tomkins, A.R., D.J. Wilson, C. Thomson, S. Bradley, L. Cole, P. Shaw, A. Gibb, D.M. Suckling, R. Marshall, and C.H. Wearing. 2000. Emergence of apple leafcurling midge (Dasineura mali) and its parasitoid (Platygaster demades). New Zealand Plant Protection 53:179-184.
Jason Leathers, 1220 N Street, Sacramento, CA, 95814, (916) 654-1211, plant.health[@]cdfa.ca.gov.
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