Category Archives: Hemiptera

Hemiptera, Insects, Mites & Earthworms

Ceroplastes floridensis Comstock: Florida Wax Scale

California Pest Rating for
Ceroplastes floridensis Comstock: Florida Wax Scale
Hemiptera: Coccidae
Pest Rating:  A
PEST RATING PROFILE
Initiating Event:

Ceroplastes floridensis is regularly intercepted by CDFA and a pest rating proposal is required to assign a permanent rating.

History & Status:

Background: Ceroplastes floridensis Comstock, is one of the most commonly encountered soft scales throughout the southern United States, where it is a serious pest of citrus and several ornamental plants. Females have a reddish brown body coated with a thick layer of pinkish-white wax (11). Males are not known in this species (5). Eggs are laid under the female’s wax covering. Females feed and develop through three immature stages before becoming adult, producing eggs and dying (1). Three generations occur in Florida, but two generations per year are common throughout its global range. Each generation lasts about three to four months. Florida wax scales overwinter as newly mature females (11). The species is highly polyphagous feeding on plants of more than 150 genera (9). In Florida, this scale is considered a major pest of Citrus. It has also been recorded from species of holly, Elm, crepe myrtle, oaks, loblolly pine, deodar cedar, and other hardwoods and soft woods (4). In Texas, infestations have been observed on elephant ear, golden euonymus, honeysuckle, pomegranate, winged elm and Virginia creeper. Adult scales that colonize the underside of leaves, twigs and branches are difficult to spot, protected from heavy rains and foliar insecticides do not reach them easily (1).

Worldwide Distribution: Ceroplastes floridensis is thought to have originated from northern Neotropics, but they now occurs throughout the world. It has been found in Africa, Asia, Australasia, Pacific islands, Central America, the Caribbean, Europe, North America and South America (11).

US Distribution: Ceroplastes floridensis occurs from New York to Florida and west to New Mexico (7).

US Interceptions: Ceroplastes floridensis was intercepted 108 times on a variety of hosts at ports of entry between 1995 and 2012 (10).

Official Control: Ceroplastes floridensis has been reported as a harmful organism in Argentina, Chile, New Zealand and the Republic of Korea (12).

California Distribution:  Ceroplastes floridensis has never been found in the natural environment of California (6).

California Interceptions:  Ceroplastes floridensis has been intercepted 58 times between January 1, 2000 and November 2016 by CDFA’s high risk inspections, dog teams and nursery inspection programs (8).

The risk Ceroplastes floridensis (Florida Wax Scale) would pose to California is evaluated below.

Consequences of Introduction: 

1) Climate/Host Interaction: Host plants of Ceroplastes floridensis are grown throughout California. The climate is ideal to grow its hosts like Citrus, Almond, Quince, Apple, Fig, Japan Plum, Myrtle, Ferns, Oleander, Mango, Red Bay, Pomegranate, Ilex glabra, Anona reticulate, Andromeda and Anthurium (4). This species is likely to establish wherever these hosts are grown in the state. Florida wax scale receives a High (3) in this Category

Evaluate if the pest would have suitable hosts and climate to establish in California:

Score: 3

– 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: Ceroplastes sp. attacks over 150 genera from 60 plant families from all geographic regions (9). Ceroplastes floridensis has been reported infesting a wide range of host plants including shrubs, trees and several herbaceous plant species (1). It receives a High (3) in this category.

Evaluate the host range of the pest:

Score: 3

– 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: A female of Ceroplastes floridensis produces about 75-100 eggs during its life time (4). There are 2-3 generations per year and each generation lasts about 3-4 months. Crawlers emerge from underneath the female, disperse and settle on leaves. Older nymphs move around with in same plant to search for new flushes of growth (11) .The colonization of scales on upper leaves makes them vulnerable to heavy rain and other environmental factors, reducing their ability to survive and disperse (1). From a quarantine perspective, dispersal of any stage of Ceroplastes floridensis can occur through the transport of host plant material. The fact that this species has been intercepted many times at ports of entry, indicates that there is high likelihood of risk of introduction and spread in California. It receives a High (3) in this category.

Evaluate the natural and artificial dispersal potential of the pest:

Score: 3

– 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 Ceroplastes floridensis were to enter and become established in California, it is likely to cause heavy infestations of host plants. These infestations could cause discoloration of leaves, pre-mature leaf drop, branch dieback and even plant death. The crop losses could be significant in hosts like citrus and almond that are major crops in California and ornamentals such as crape myrtle, oleander and bay laurel that are widely distributed. To add to these losses, the sticky honeydew secreted by this scale could vector sooty mold fungus that can significantly reduce photosynthesis and the aesthetic value of host plants (11). It receives a High (3) in this category

Evaluate the economic impact of the pest to California using the criteria below:

Economic Impact: A, B, F

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 use

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: The establishment of Ceroplastes floridensis in California would likely impact cultural practices and ornamental plantings. Infested plants would need to be pruned off and pest resistant varieties would need to be planted. Sanitation and planting practices are likely to be impacted in the state if this scale were to spread in ornamental and horticultural plantings (11). Florida wax scale infestations could also trigger additional treatments, especially the use of systemic insecticides and foliar sprays (1). The application of broad spectrum insecticides is likely to disrupt local natural enemies including beneficial predators and parasites. (2). It receives a High (3) in this category

Evaluate the environmental impact of the pest on California using the criteria below:

Environmental Impact: A, 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.

Score the pest for Environmental Impact:

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.

Consequences of Introduction to California for Ceroplastes floridensis: High (15)

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: Ceroplastes floridensis has never been found in the natural 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:

Score: 0

–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.

Final Score:

The final score is the consequences of introduction score minus the post entry distribution and survey information score: High (15)

Uncertainty:

Ceroplastes floridensis has been intercepted multiple times at ports of entry, border stations and through regulatory pathways in California. Therefore the likelihood of introduction risk of this species is high. The four Ceroplastes species already present in California are found on similar hosts like citrus, oleander and gardenia. There have not been any formal surveys of Ceroplastes floridensis in California. It is possible that this species might be present in some areas of the California.

Conclusion and Rating Justification:

Ceroplastes floridensis has never been found in the environment of California and would likely have significant economic and environmental impacts if it were to enter the state.  An “A”-rating is justified.

References:
  1. Drees, Bastian M, Reinert James and William, Michaels. 2006. Florida Wax Scale: A Major Pest of Hollies and Other Landscape Shrubs and Trees. Texas A & M University, Department of Entomology http://landscapeipm.tamu.edu/ipm-for-ornamentals/florida-wax-scales/
  1. Dreistadt, S.H. and Kabashima, J.N. UC Statewide IPM Program Davis, Scales. Integrated Pest Management for Home Gardeners and Landscape professionals. http://www.ipm.ucdavis.edu/PDF/PESTNOTES/pnscales.pdf 
  2. Essig, E.O. 1915. Injurious and Beneficial Insects of California. Comstock Memorial Library of Entomology. Host Index of Injurious insects Described or Cited. P 112-113       https://books.google.com/books?id=fBRDAAAAYAAJ&pg=PR8&lpg=PR8&dq=hosts+of+ceroplastes+floridensis+in+california&source=bl&ots=X1otK7Bpd9&sig=26PJwmeUF3U5LmS4dPSdwulIu1Y&hl=en&sa=X&ved=0ahUKEwj1sJGj8fTQAhVMwWMKHWdbAdQQ6AEIHzAB#v=onepage&q=hosts%20of%20ceroplastes%20floridensis%20in%20california&f=false
  3. Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services 1983. Forest Health Publications. Bulletin No. 196-A, Florida Wax Scale http://www.freshfromflorida.com/Divisions-Offices/Florida-Forest-Service/Our-Forests/Forest-Health/Forest-Health-Publications/Insects-and-Diseases/Florida-Wax-Scale
  1. Futch SH, McCoy Jr CW, Childers CC. (April 2009). A guide to scale insect identification. EDIS. .
  1. Gill, Raymond J. 1988. The Soft Scales (Homoptera: Coccoidea: Coccidae). California Department of Food and Agriculture https://www.cdfa.ca.gov/plant/ppd/PDF/Technical_Series_01.pdf
  1. Hamon AB, Williams ML. 1984. Arthropods of Florida and neighboring land areas, Vol. 2. Florida Department of Agricultural and Consumer Services, Division of Plant Industry.
  2. Pest and Damage Record Database, Plant Health and Pest Prevention Services, California Department of Food and Agriculture http://phpps.cdfa.ca.gov/user/frmLogon2.asp
  1. Scale net database: Ceroplastes floridensis (Comstock) http://scalenet.info/catalogue/ceroplastes%20floridensis/
  1. Scalenet: Identification Tools for Species of quarantine significance, Edition 2. Ceroplastes floridensis Fact Sheet http://www.idtools.org/id/scales/factsheet.php?name=6876
  1. Sharma Shweta and Buss, Eileen. Florida Wax Scale. University of Florida- Entomology and Plant Pathology. Featured Creatures. http://entnemdept.ufl.edu/creatures/orn/scales/florida_wax_scale.htm
  1. USDA Phytosanitary Certificate Issuance & Tracking System (PCIT) Phytosanitary Export Database (PExD). https://pcit.aphis.usda.gov/PExD/faces/ViewPExD.jsp
Responsible Party:

Raj Randhawa, Senior Environmental Scientist; Dean G. Kelch, Primary Botanist; California Department of Food and Agriculture; 1220 N Street, Sacramento, CA 95814; Tel. (916) 654-0312; plant.health[@]cdfa.ca.gov.

Comment Format:

♦  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.

Pest Rating:  A

Posted by ls

Hemiptera, Insects, Mites & Earthworms

Adelges piceae: Balsam Woolly Adelgid

California Pest Rating for
Adelges piceae:  Balsam Woolly Adelgid
Hemiptera: Adelgidae
Pest Rating: B
PEST RATING PROFILE
Initiating Event:

Adelges piceae has been detected by CDFA in Mendocino County and has a temporary rating of “Z”. A pest rating proposal is required to support its permanent pest rating.

History & Status:

Background: Adelges piceae is a tiny, non-flying, sucking, soft-bodied insect which appears as a white, woolly spot on true firs3. Adults are blackish purple, roughly spherical in shape, less than 1mm long and produce a thick mass of wool-like waxy strands over their bodies. The first immature motile stage of this insect is known as a crawler. The crawlers are orange in color with legs and black eyes. The crawler is the only mobile stage in its life cycle and it is capable of crawling more than 30 m. Adelges piceae has 2-3 generations per year over most of its range with an occasional fourth generation1.

Adelges piceae has long, tube-like mouthparts, and causes great damage to fir forests in Canada and the United States. It was introduced into North America from Europe in the 1900s1. It is a serious pest to landscape and to the Christmas fir tree industry. Adelges piceae causes significant damage to true firs including Abies alba, A. balsamea, A. cilicica, A. fraseri, A. grandis, A. nordmanniana, and others. It is invasive outside of its native central Europe from where it spread via timber imports. Adelges piceae populations in North America are composed entirely of females and as a result, its reproduction is parthenogenetic (i.e. without mating and fertilization)3.

In Europe, host trees are relatively insensitive to attack and the insect is not considered a significant forest pest. In North America, however, it has caused significant damage and mortality to true firs (Abies spp.) in both eastern and western forests. In some localities, firs are slowly being eliminated from the ecosystem; and Adelges piceae populations continue to spread to previously uninfested areas2.

Worldwide Distribution: Adelges piceae is native to Europe where it is well distributed in Albania, Austria, Bosnia-Hercegovina, Bulgaria, Czechoslovakia, Denmark, France, Germany, Greece, Ireland, Italy, Lithuania, Macedonia, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Serbia, Sweden, Switzerland and UK. In Asia it is present in Turkey. In North America it is introduced in Canada and USA. In South America it is invasive in Chile4.

In the United States it can be found in California, Idaho, Maine, New York, North Carolina, Oregon, Tennessee, Virginia, and Washington, West Virginia4.

Official Control: Adelges piceae is listed as a harmful organism in Canada, Japan, Guatemala and Ecuador 5.

California Distribution: Adelges piceae was first detected in California in 1928 in the SF Bay Area. Since then, according to Jack Marshall (CA Dept Forestry & Fire Protection, CA Forest Pest Council, 2012), it has been collected in Palo Alto (1934), Berkeley (1958), Sacramento (1986), and Mendocino Co. (2011, 2012)4.

California Interceptions: Adelges piceae was collected by State fire dept. in Mendocino County (PDR MVAP06099309)6.

The risk Adelges piceae (Balsam woolly adelgid) would pose to California is evaluated below.

Consequences of Introduction:

1) Climate/Host Interaction: Hosts plants of Adelges piceae are grown on a limited part of California and this insect presents the possibility of spread and become established wherever the hosts are grown within the state. It receives a Medium (2) in this category.

Evaluate if the pest would have suitable hosts and climate to establish in California: Score: 2

– 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: Adelges piceae feeds on fir (Abies spp.) and some other pine species which are present only in high elevation. It has moderate host range. So it receives a Medium (2) in this category.

Evaluate the host range of the pest: Score: 2

– 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: Adelges piceae females produce up to 200 eggs per clutch and normally two clutches produced per year2. Adelges piceae eggs and newly hatched nymphs are spread by wind, on animals and the movement of infested plant material. It receives a High (3) in this category

Evaluate the natural and artificial dispersal potential of the pest: Score: 3

– 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: Adelges piceae is a major pest of fir species and causes a billion feet of fir timber loss in North America. It is a serious pest to seed production, landscape fir, natural fir, and fir Christmas tree industry. It is listed as an invasive pest by Canada & Japan so it has the potential to trigger a loss of markets. It can increase production costs to growers if they perform any treatment to control its infestation. It receives a High (3) in this category

Evaluate the economic impact of the pest to California using the criteria below:  

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: Adelges piceae is not expected to lower biodiversity, disrupt natural communities, or change ecosystem processes.  Adelges piceae is not expected to directly impact threatened or endangered species. It could impact the habitat of endangered species Zayante band-winged grasshopper which feed on grass grown at the base of pines forest. Adelges piceae may trigger new chemical treatments in forests and the nursery industry.  It is not expected to have significant impacts on cultural practices, home/urban gardening, or ornamental plantings. Adelges piceae receives a High (3) in this catego

Evaluate the Environmental impact of the pest to California using the criteria below:  

Environmental Impact:  C, D

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 endangered species or 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.

Consequences of Introduction to California for Adelges piceae:  High (13)

–Low = 5-8 points

–Medium = 9-12 points

–High = 13-15 points

6) Post Entry Distribution and Survey Information: Adelges piceae has a localized distribution in California, or is established in one suitable climate and receive Low Score (-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: Score -1

–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.

Final Score:

The final score is the consequences of introduction score minus the post entry distribution and survey information score: Medium (12)

Uncertainty:

Adelges piceae is introduced in California about 90 years ago; luckily it spread only a very limited area. Since, the host plants are growing on higher elevations and foot hills. Therefore, it is a strong possibility that it can be establish in other new areas of California.

Conclusion and Rating Justification:

Adelges piceae has been established in   Northern coastal area of California especially, in Mendocino County and is not under official control. Its establishment in the state is likely to have significant economic impacts to nurseries that produce and distribute Christmas trees. It is also likely to have environmental impacts as it triggers new chemical treatments and significantly affects ornamental plantings.  A “B” rating is justified.

 References:
  1. Amman, Gene D. 1962. Seasonal biology of the balsam woolly aphid on Mt. Mitchell, North Carolina. J. Econ. Entomol. 55(1):96-98. Accessed on 11-15-16  http://www.na.fs.fed.us/pubs/fidls/bwa.pdf
  1. Global Invasive Species Database (GISD) 2015. Species profile Adelges piceae National Biological Information Infrastructure (NBII) & IUCN/SSC Invasive Species Specialist Group (ISSG). Accessed on 11-23-16 http://www.iucngisd.org/gisd/species.php?sc=226
  1. Hain, F.P. (1998). The balsam woolly adelgid in North America. pp 87-109. In: Ed. Berryman, A.A. Dynamics of Forest Insect Populations: Patterns, Causes, Implications, Plenum and New York. http://influentialpoints.com/Gallery/Adelges_piceae_Balsam_woolly_adelgid.htm#biolog
  1.  Invasive Species Compendium: Distribution maps for plant pests http://www.cabi.org/isc/datasheet/3268
  1. USDA Phytosanitary Certificate Issuance & Tracking System (PCIT) Phytosanitary Export Database (PExD). https://pcit.aphis.usda.gov/pcit/
  1. Pest and Damage Record Database, California Department of Food and Agriculture, Plant Health and Pest Prevention Services. http://phpps.cdfa.ca.gov/user/frmLogon2.asp
Responsible party:

Javaid Iqbal,  California Department of Food and Agriculture; 1220 N Street, Sacramento, CA 95814; Tel. (916) 403-6695; plant.health[@]cdfa.ca.gov.

Comment Format:

♦  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.

Pest Rating: B

Posted by ls

Hemiptera, Insects, Mites & Earthworms

Paracoccus marginatus Williams and Granara de Willink: Papaya mealybug

California Pest Rating for
Paracoccus marginatus Williams and Granara de Willink: Papaya mealybug
Hemiptera:  Pseudococcidae
Pest Rating:  A
PEST RATING PROFILE
Initiating Event:

February 26, 2014, USDA distributed a Deregulation Evaluation of Established Pests (DEEP) report proposing to change the status of Paracoccus marginatus, papaya mealybug, from actionable to non-actionable for the entire United States.  The insect is currently unrated by CDFA, so a pest rating proposal is needed to determine future direction.

History & Status:

Background:  Paracoccus marginatus is a polyphagous mealybug that feeds on at least 55 plant species in at least 18 families1.  Although papaya is the preferred host, other hosts include economically important crops such as citrus, avocado, cotton, cherry, tomato, and a variety of ornamentals1,2,3.  Infestations of the mealybug are typically observed as cotton-like clusters on the above ground portions of plants2.  Feeding can result in chlorosis, plant stunting, leaf deformation, early leaf and fruit drop, a heavy build-up of honeydew, and plant death2.   Paracoccus marginatus can move long distances through commerce in infested fruit, plants, or leaves.

Worldwide Distribution: Paracoccus marginatus is believed to be native to Mexico and Central America.  From there it has spread throughout the Caribbean, southern Asia, and to Benin, Ghana, Togo in Africa, and French Guiana in South America.  It was found in Florida in 1998, Puerto Rico in 2001, Guam in 2002, and Hawaii in 2004.   A greenhouse infestation in Illinois in 2001 was successfully controlled with biological control agents.

Official Control: Paracoccus marginatus is not known to be under official control in any states or nations.

California Distribution:  Paracoccus marginatus has never been found in the environment of California.

California Interceptions:  Paracoccus marginatus has been intercepted four times by California, on Plumeria rubra and betel from Hawaii, papaya from Mexico, and rambutan fruit from Honduras.  USDA has intercepted the mealybug nearly 650 times since 1994, mostly on fruit and other plant parts from Mexico destined for California1.

The risk Paracoccus marginatus (Papaya mealybug) would pose to California is evaluated below.

Consequences of Introduction: 

1) Climate/Host Interaction: The present distribution of Paracoccus marginatus is limited to USDA plant hardiness zones 10+. In California this corresponds with portions of the southern part of the state as well as greenhouses.  Papaya mealybug receives a Medium(2) in this category.

Evaluate if the pest would have suitable hosts and climate to establish in California.  Score: 2

– 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: Paracoccus marginatus is known to feed on 55 species of plants in at least 18 familes1.  It receives a High(3) in this category.

Evaluate the host range of the pest. Score: 3

– 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: Mealybugs reproduce rapidly; Paracoccus marginatus is thought to lay 100-600 eggs each and have up to 15 generations per year.  Mealybugs may be dispersed long distances by wind, as hitchhikers on clothing or animals, and through commerce in infested plants and plant parts.  Papaya mealybug receives a High(3) in this category.

Evaluate the natural and artificial dispersal potential of the pest. Score: 3

– 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: Paracoccus marginatus is not reported to cause economic damage in Florida and has been successfully controlled by biological control on several Caribbean islands.  Papaya mealybug is not expected to lower crop yield, change normal cultural practices, vector other organisms, injure animals, or interfere with water supplies.  Although marginatus is not known to be listed as a quarantine pest by any nation, due to its limited worldwide distribution and frequent interceptions on fruit it is reasonable to conclude that it may disrupt some markets for fresh fruit exports.  It is also possible that the mealybug may increase crop production costs in the nursery and/or fruit industries by triggering additional treatments or disfiguring plants with their presence.  Papaya mealybug receives a Medium(2) in this category.

Evaluate the economic impact of the pest to California using the criteria below. Score:

Economic Impact: 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: 2

– 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: Paracoccus marginatus is not expected to lower biodiversity, disrupt natural communities, or change ecosystem processes.  San Diego ambrosia (Ambrosia pumila) is a potential host of the mealybug and is listed as an endangered species.  The mealybug is not expected to disrupt critical habitats.  Papaya mealybug may trigger additional treatment programs in the nursery industry, fruit industry, and by some residents.  The mealybug receives a High(3) in this category.

Evaluate the environmental impact of the pest on California using the criteria below.

Environmental Impact: B, D

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:

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.

Consequences of Introduction to California for Paracoccus marginatus (Papaya mealybug):  High(13)

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: Paracoccus marginatus has never been detected 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.

Final Score:

The final score is the consequences of introduction score minus the post entry distribution and survey information score: High(13)

Uncertainty:

It is likely that incursions of Paracoccus marginatus into California may have already occurred based on the large number of interceptions by USDA.  It is possible that the mealybug may already be present in parts of southern California.

Conclusion and Rating Justification:

The polyphagous nature and high frequency of Paracoccus marginatus interceptions make it likely that papaya mealybug will establish in southern California.  Economic impacts of the mealybug may include possible disruptions to fresh fruit exports as well as possible increased production costs in the nursery and fruit industries.  Potential environmental impacts include triggering new chemical treatments and direct feeding on endangered San Diego ambrosia.  An A-rating is justified.

References:

1Landry, Cynthia.  2014.  Deregulation Evaluation of Established Pests (DEEP); DEEP Report on Paracoccus marginatus Williams and Granara de Willink: Papaya mealybug.

2Walker, Alison, Marjorie Hoy, and Dale Meyerdirk.  2006.  Papaya mealybug.  University of Florida Featured Creatures.  http://entnemdept.ufl.edu/creatures/fruit/mealybugs/papaya_mealybug.htm

3Sakthivel, P., Karuppuchamy, P., Kalyanasundaram, M. & Srinivasan, T. 2012. Host plants of invasive papaya mealybug, Paracoccus marginatus (Williams and Granara de Willink) in Tamil Nadu. Madras Agricultural Journal 99(7-9): 615-619.

Responsible Party:

Jason Leathers, 1220 N Street, Sacramento, CA, 95814, (916) 654-1211, plant.health[@]cdfa.ca.gov.

Comment Format:

♦  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.

Pest Rating:  A

Posted by ls

Hemiptera, Insects, Mites & Earthworms

Selenaspidus articulatus (Morgan): Rufous scale

California Pest Rating for
Selenaspidus articulatus (Morgan): Rufous scale
Hemiptera: Diaspididae
Pest Rating: A
PEST RATING PROFILE
Initiating Event:

Selenaspidus articulatus is frequently intercepted by CDFA. A pest rating proposal is required to support its permanent pest rating.

 History & Status:

Background: Selenaspidus articulatus (Rufous scale), also called the West Indies scale, is considered as a serious pest of certain citrus producing areas of South America, West Indies and coastal regions of Peru2.

Rufous scale is a highly polyphagous species that can feed on vegetative growth, flowers, fruits and post-harvest stages of its host plants. Species of Citrus are favored hosts of this pest, but it also feeds on members from the families Anacardiaceae, Euphorbiaceae and Palmae. Known hosts include Acalypha, Anacardium, Annona spp., Antidesma, Ardisia, Artocarpus heterophyllus, Arundinaria, Averrhoa spp., Barringtonia, Bauhinia, Bignonia, Brunfelsia, Calathea, Calea, Calophyllum, Camellia sinensis (tea),  Carissa, Cassia, Celastrus, Ceratonia, Chrysalidocarpus, Chrysophyllum, Cladoxylon, Cocos nucifera, Codiaeum, Cordyline, Croton, Cycas,Cyperaceae, Decaspermum, Dictyosperma, Dovyalis, Dracaena, Elaeis,Eriobotrya, Eucalyptus, Eugenia, Excoecaria, Ficus, Fortunella,Furcraea, Garcinia, Gardenia, Gliricidia, Hedera, Hedychium, Hevea brasiliensis, Hibiscus, Howea, Hyphaene, Ixora, Jacquemontia, Jasminum, Lagerstroemia, Lantana, Ligustrum, Litchi chinensis, Lonchocarpus, Maclura, Magnolia, Malachra, Mammea, Mangifera indica, Olea europaea, Palmae, Pandanus, Passiflora edulis, Persea americana, Phaseolus, Phoenix dactylifera,Pilea, Plumeria, Rosa, Saccharum officinarum, Sambucus, Schinus, Spondias, Swietenia, Tamarindus, Tambourissa, Tecoma, Theobroma, Thespesia,Tricalysia, Vitis vinifera, Washingtonia and Xanthosoma sagittifolium2.

Rufous scale damages both sides of the leaves, but mostly the upper surface exposed to the sun. The damage is caused by sap-depletion, and through injection of toxic saliva, which causes chlorosis and death of plant tissue in the area of penetration. Parasitism is the most successful technique to control this scale2.

Worldwide Distribution: Rufous scale is distributed throughout tropical and subtropical regions of the world. It spread through many of the citrus growing countries including Peru, Jamaica, Montserrat, Philippines, Panama, Nicaragua, Solomon Islands, Mozambique, Trinidad and Tobago, Mexico, South Africa, Sri Lanka, Suriname, Taiwan, Togo, Uganda, United Kingdom, Mauritius, Tanzania, Comoros, Grenada, Martinique, Australia, Barbados, Brazil, Cameroon, Costa Rica, Cuba, Ecuador, El Salvador, Kenya, Chad, Madagascar, Eritrea, French Guiana, and Fiji Island3.

In the United States it can be found in Florida and the Virgin Islands.

Official Control: Rufous scale has been listed as a harmful Organism by 11 nations including China, Japan, Paraguay, Guatemala, Venezuela, Chile, India, New Zealand, Vietnam, Republic of Korea and Republic of Bolivia5.

California Distribution: Rufous Scale has never found in the environment in California.

California Interceptions: Rufous scale has been intercepted multiple times by CDFA’s border stations and nursery regulatory inspections. Interceptions were typically on plants or plant material imported from South American countries.

The risk Selenaspidus articulatus (Rufous scale) would pose to California is evaluated below.

Consequences of Introduction:

1) Climate/Host Interaction: Hosts plants of Rufous scale are grown throughout California and this insect presents the possibility of spread and become established wherever the hosts are grown within the state. It receives a High (3) in this category.

Evaluate if the pest would have suitable hosts and climate to establish in California:  Score: 3

– 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: Rufous scale is a highly polyphagous species that has been recorded from hosts belonging to 60 genera in 31 plant families4. It receives a High (3) in this category.

Evaluate the host range of the pest. Score: 3

– 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: Rufous scale females produce large number of eggs (71-124 each) and can be easily transported with the movement of infested plant material. It receives at High (3) in this category

Evaluate the natural and artificial dispersal potential of the pest. Score: 3

– 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.

3) Economic Impact: Rufous scale is mainly a pest of citrus but also has the potential to devastate California grape, avocado and olive industry. It is listed as a damaging pest by several nations so it has the potential to trigger a loss of markets. Furthermore, it may increase production costs in citrus and in nursery industries as growers may treat to ensure fruit or plant cleanliness It receives a High (3) in this category

Evaluate the economic impact of the pest to California using the criteria below.

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: Rufous scale is not expected to lower biodiversity, disrupt natural communities, or change ecosystem processes. It could affect threatened and endangered species such as Wiggins’ croton

(Croton wigginsii) and small-leaved rose (Rosa minutifolia); it would not be expected to disrupt critical habitats. It is very likely to trigger new treatment programs in citrus, olive & avocado orchards and by residents who find infested plants unsightly. It may also significantly impact ornamental plantings. It receives a High (3) in this category

Evaluate the environmental impact of the pest on California using the criteria below.

Environmental Impact: C, 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.

Consequences of Introduction to California for Selenaspidus articulatus (Rufous scale):  High (15)

–Low = 5-8 points

–Medium = 9-12 points

–High = 13-15 points

6) Post Entry Distribution and Survey Information: Rufous scale 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.

Final Score:

The final score is the consequences of introduction score minus the post entry distribution and survey information score: High (15)

Uncertainty:

There are no surveys done recently for the detection. Since most of the host plants are grown throughout California, it could easily spread and get established in the state.

Conclusion and Rating Justification:

Rufous scale has never been found in California and might cause significant economic and environmental impacts if this pest were to get established in California. Currently, an “A” rating is justified.

References:

1DISCOVERIES IN NATURAL HISTORY & EXPLORATION UCR website. Accessed on 11-15-16. http://www.faculty.ucr.edu/~legneref/biotact/ch-95.htm

2Davidson, J.A. and D.R. Miller, 1990. Ornamental plants. In: D. Rosen (ed.), armoured scale insects, their biology, natural enemies and control. Vol. 4B. Elsevier, Amsterdam, the Netherlands: 603-632 http://wbd.etibioinformatics.nl/bis/diaspididae.php?menuentry=soorten&id=175

3Biological Records Centre: Global Species : Accessed on 11-15-16 http://www.globalspecies.org/ntaxa/385773

4USDA Phytosanitary Certificate Issuance & Tracking System (PCIT) Phytosanitary Export Database (PExD). Accessed on 11-15-16. https://pcit.aphis.usda.gov/pcit/

5Pest and Damage Record Database, California Department of Food and Agriculture, Plant Health and Pest Prevention Services.  http://phpps.cdfa.ca.gov/user/frmLogon2.asp

 Responsible Party:

Javaid Iqbal,  California Department of Food and Agriculture; 1220 N Street, Sacramento, CA 95814; Tel. (916) 403-6695; plant.health[@]cdfa.ca.gov.

Comment Format:

♦  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.

Pest Rating: A

Posted by ls

Hemiptera, Insects, Mites & Earthworms

Ceroplastes rubens Maskell: Red wax scale

California Pest Rating for
Ceroplastes rubens Maskell: Red wax scale
Hemiptera:  Coccidae
Pest Rating:  A
PEST RATING PROFILE
Initiating Event:

February 26, 2014, USDA distributed a Deregulation Evaluation of Established Pests (DEEP) report proposing to change the status of Ceroplastes rubens, red wax scale, from actionable to non-actionable for the entire United States.  The insect is currently A-rated by CDFA, so a pest rating proposal is needed to determine future direction.

History & Status:

Background:  Ceroplastes rubens is a highly polyphagous scale, feeding on hundreds of species of plants in at least 80 families1,5.  It is considered to be a serious pest of citrus2,3,4,5; however, biological control programs have been successful at keeping populations below damaging levels1,3.   In addition to citrus, other economically important hosts in California include avocado, Prunus spp., apple, fig, and an extremely wide variety of ornamentals1,5.  Adults and nymphs feed on foliage, twigs, and stems and are said to have a preference for the upper surface of leaves4.  Red wax scale can move long distances through the international trade of infested plants or plant parts.

Worldwide Distribution: Ceroplastes rubens is so widely distributed that its origin is uncertain.  It is thought to possibly be native to Africa, India, or Sri Lanka2.  From there it has spread widely across much of Asia, Oceania, Australia, and the Caribbean1.  It has also been found in Colombia and greenhouses in Europe1.  The scale has been known from Hawaii since 1894 and Florida since 19551.

Official Control: Ceroplastes rubens is not known to be under official control in any states or nations.

California Distribution:  Ceroplastes rubens has not been found in the environment of California.

California Interceptions:  Ceroplastes rubens is commonly intercepted by California on shipments of nursery stock from Florida and Hawaii.  The scale is also frequently intercepted by USDA on plants, cuttings, cut flowers, leaves, and fruit1.  Although these interceptions are most common in passenger baggage, they also include finds on large permitted commercial shipments of plants (Aglaonema sp. and Schefflera sp.) from Costa Rica to California1 that would have been likely to contaminate the state’s nursery industry.

The risk Ceroplastes rubens (red wax scale) would pose to California is evaluated below.

Consequences of Introduction: 

1) Climate/Host Interaction: The present distribution of Ceroplastes rubens extends across USDA plant hardiness zones 7-13. This corresponds to most of California, with the exception of high elevation areas.  The polyphagous nature of the scale makes it likely that it will find suitable hosts throughout this area.  Red wax scale receives a High(3) in this category.

Evaluate if the pest would have suitable hosts and climate to establish in California.  Score: 3

– 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: Ceroplastes rubens is known to feed on hundreds of plant species in at least 80 families1,5.  The scale receives a High(3) in this category.

Evaluate the host range of the pest. Score: 3

– 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: Ceroplastes rubens has a high reproductive rate.  In Australia the scale has two generations per year with each female producing an average of about 300 eggs4.  The scales may be spread long distances by wind, as hitchhikers on clothing or animals, or by commerce in infested plants.  Red wax scale receives a High(3) in this category.

Evaluate the natural and artificial dispersal potential of the pest.  Score: 3

– 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:  Ceroplastes rubens may lower crop value and increase production costs in the nursery and fresh fruit industries.  The insects disfigure plants by their presence and their honeydew contributes to the development of sooty mold, which can lower the value of ornamental plants and fruit.  The scale is not known to be listed as a quarantine pest in any nations; however, due to its absence from most of the Americas and New Zealand, it is reasonable to conclude that the scale could interrupt some fresh fruit export markets.  Red wax scale receives a Medium(2) in this category.

Evaluate the economic impact of the pest to California using the criteria below.

Economic Impact: 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: 2

– 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: Ceroplastes rubens is likely to trigger new chemical treatments by the nursery industry and by residents who find infested plants unsightly.  Potential hosts of red wax scale include plants listed as threatened or endangered in California including Nevin’s barberry (Berberis nevenii), island barberry (Berberis pinnata insularis), small-leaved rose (Rosa minutifolia), and Algodones Dunes sunflower (Helianthus niveus ssp. tephrodes).  Red wax scale receives a High(3) in this category.

Evaluate the environmental impact of the pest on California using the criteria below.

Environmental Impact: B, D

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.

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.

Consequences of Introduction to California for Ceroplastes rubens (red wax scale):  High(14)

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: Ceroplastes rubens 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.

Final Score:

The final score is the consequences of introduction score minus the post entry distribution and survey information score: High(14)

Uncertainty:

It is possible that Ceroplastes rubens would be managed by existing IPM programs in California fruit production.  It is also possible that existing packing house procedures would mitigate potential trade disruptions.

Conclusion and Rating Justification:

Ceroplastes rubens (red wax scale) is a highly polyphagous scale insect that is likely to have significant economic and environmental impacts in California.  The scale is likely to contaminate fresh fruit (Citrus and Prunus spp.) with its presence and sooty mold, reducing fruit marketability and possibly disrupting export markets.  The scale is also likely to increase production costs in the nursery industry as it feeds on an extremely wide variety of ornamental plants.  Red wax scale is likely to trigger new chemical treatments in the nursery and fruit industries, as well as by residents who find infested plants unsightly.  At least four threatened or endangered plants are potential hosts of the scale in California and are likely to be directly affected by feeding.  These potential economic and environmental impacts justify an A-rating for Ceroplastes rubens.

References:

1Culliney, T.W.  2014.  Deregulation Evaluation of Established Pests (DEEP); DEEP Report on Ceroplastes rubens Maskell: Red wax scale.

2Loch, A.D. 1997.  Natural enemies of pink wax scale, Ceroplastes rubens Maskell (Hemiptera: Coccidae), on umbrella trees in southeastern Queensland.  Australian Journal of Entomology 36:303-306.  http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/j.1440-6055.1997.tb01475.x/pdf

3UC Riverside, Red wax scale.  http://www.faculty.ucr.edu/~legneref/biotact/ch-92.htm

4Malumphy, C. and D. Eyre.  2011.  Pink wax scale: Ceroplastes rubens.  Plant pest factsheet.  The Food and Environment Research Agency (Fera). U.K.  http://www.fera.defra.gov.uk/plants/publications/documents/factsheets/ceroplastesRubens.pdf

5Dekle, G.W.  2001.  Featured Creatures: Red wax scale: Ceroplastes rubens.  Florida Dept. of Agriculture and Consumer Services, Division of Plant Industry.  http://entnemdept.ufl.edu/creatures/orn/scales/red_wax_scale.htm

Responsible Party:

Jason Leathers, 1220 N Street, Sacramento, CA, 95814, (916) 654-1211, plant.health[@]cdfa.ca.gov.

Comment Format:

♦  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.

Pest Rating:  A

Posted by ls

Hemiptera, Insects, Mites & Earthworms

Dysmicoccus grassii (Leonardi): Alazon Mealybug

California Pest Rating for
Dysmicoccus grassii (Leonardi): Alazon Mealybug
Hemiptera: Pseudococcidae
Pest Rating: A
PEST RATING PROFILE
Initiating Event:

Dysmicoccus grassii is frequently intercepted by CDFA and requires a pest rating proposal to support its pest rating.

History & Status:

Background:  Dysmicoccus grassii is a polyphagous mealybug that feeds on tropical and subtropical plants and where it is commonly found feeding around the peduncle of fruit1.  This feeding can cause yellowing and rot of green fruit1.  The mealybug is considered to be a pest of bananas in the Canary Islands and Nigeria1.  Known hosts include: Anacardiaceae: mango (Mangifera indica2) ; Annonaceae: sugar apple (Annona squamosa2); Asparagaceae: Mexican grass tree (Dasylirion longissimum2); Asteraceae: Eupatorium odoratum2; Bignoniaceae: calabash tree (Crescentia cujete2); Bromeliaceae: pineapple (Ananas comosus2), Andrea inermis2; Caricaceae: papaya (Carica papaya2) ; Combretaceae: tropical almond (Terminalia catappa2); Cucurbitaceae: chayote (Sechium edule2); Euphorbiaceae: Codiaeum spp.2; Fabaceae: Acacia spp.2; Lauraceae: Persea spp.2; Liliaceae: Asparagus spp.; Lythraceae: pomegranate (Punica granatum2); Malvaceae: Theobroma cacao1,2; Melastomataceae: Melastoma spp.2; Moraceae: Artocarpus spp.2, weeping fig (Ficus benjamina2); Musaceae: Musa acuminata2, Musa sapientum2, Musa spp.2; Passifloraceae: passion fruit (Passiflora edulis2); Polygonaceae: sea grape (Coccoloba uvifera2); Rubiaceae: coffee (Coffea arabica2), robusta coffee (Coffea canephora1); Verbenaceae: teak (Tectona grandis2).  Dysmicoccus grassii may be transported long distances when infested plants or fresh plant parts are moved.

Worldwide Distribution: Dysmicoccus grassii is considered to be native to Central and South America1.  From there it has spread to Malaysia, the Canary Islands, France, Italy, Sicily, and Nigeria2.

Official Control: Dysmicoccus grassii (including its synonym D. alazon) are listed as harmful organisms by China, Japan, the Republic of Korea, and Egypt3.

California Distribution:  Dysmicoccus grassii has never been found in the environment of California.

California Interceptions:  Between January 1, 2000 and December 31, 2014 Dysmicoccus grassii was intercepted by CDFA’s dog teams, border stations, and high risk programs 134 times.  These interceptions are typically on fruit or plants from Florida and Mexico.  It was also found in one nursery in Los Angeles County on plants imported from Florida.

The risk Dysmicoccus grassii (alazon mealybug) would pose to California is evaluated below.

Consequences of Introduction: 

1) Climate/Host Interaction: Host plants of Dysmicoccus grassii are commonly grown in California and the mealybug is expected to be able to establish wherever these are grown. It receives a High (3) in this category.

Evaluate if the pest would have suitable hosts and climate to establish in California.  Score: 1

– 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: Dysmicoccus grassii is known to feed on at least 25 species of plants in 22 families.  However, many of these are tropical plants that are not commonly grown in California.  It receives a Medium (2) in this category.

Evaluate the host range of the pest. Score: 2

– 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: Mealybugs are capable of rapid reproduction and can be transported long distances when infested plants or fresh plant parts are moved.  They may also disperse locally by crawling, wind, or by hitchhiking on clothing, equipment, or animals.  Dysmicoccus grassii receives a High (3) in this category.

Evaluate the natural and artificial dispersal potential of the pest. Score: 3

– 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: Dysmicoccus grassii can disfigure unripe fruit when it feeds and might lower crop yields.  It may reduce the value of nursery stock by disfiguring plants with its presence.  The presence of the mealybug may disrupt markets for California agricultural commodities as several of California’s trading partners consider it a harmful organism.  Dysmicoccus grassii receives a High (3) in this category.

Evaluate the economic impact of the pest to California using the criteria below. 

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: Dysmicoccus grassii 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 habitats.  The mealybug could trigger additional private treatment programs in orchards, the nursery industry, and by residents who find infested plants or fruit damage unacceptable.  Many of the host plants of Dysmicoccus grassii are commonly grown as ornamentals and in home/urban gardens in California and may be significantly impacted.  The mealybug 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.

Score the pest for Environmental Impact.

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.

Consequences of Introduction to California for Dysmicoccus grassii (Alazon Mealybug):  High (14)

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: Dysmicoccus grassii 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.

Final Score:

The final score is the consequences of introduction score minus the post entry distribution and survey information score: High (14)

Uncertainty:

Dysmicoccus grassii is frequently intercepted by CDFA.  Presumably, it enters California at other times undetected.  It is possible that it has been introduced and is established in some localities.  Alternatively, it could be failing to establish.

Conclusion and Rating Justification:

Dysmicoccus grassii has never been found in the environment of California and is likely to have significant economic and environmental impacts.  An “A” rating is justified.

References:

1 Culik, Mark P., David dos Santos Martins, and Penny J. Gullan. 2006. First records of two mealybug species in Brazil and new potential pests of papaya and coffee. Journal of Insect Science 6(23): 1-6. http://jinsectscience.oxfordjournals.org/content/jis/6/1/23.full.pdf

2 Miller, Dug, Yair Ben-Dov, Gary Gibson, and Nate Hardy.  ScaleNet.  http://scalenet.info/validname/Dysmicoccus/grassii/

3 USDA Phytosanitary Certificate Issuance & Tracking System (PCIT) Phytosanitary Export Database (PExD).  https://pcit.aphis.usda.gov/pcit/

Responsible Party:

Jason Leathers, 1220 N Street, Sacramento, CA, 95814, (916) 654-1211, plant.health[@]cdfa.ca.gov.

Comment Format:

♦  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.

Pest Rating: A

Posted by ls

Hemiptera, Insects, Mites & Earthworms

Ceroplastes rusci (L.): Fig wax scale

California Pest Rating for
Ceroplastes rusci (L.): Fig wax scale
Hemiptera:  Coccidae
Pest Rating:  A
PEST RATING PROFILE
Initiating Event:

February 26, 2014, USDA distributed a Deregulation Evaluation of Established Pests (DEEP) report proposing to change the status of Ceroplastes rusci, fig wax scale, from actionable to non-actionable for the continental United States.  The scale would remain actionable for Hawaii and the Pacific territories.  The insect is currently assigned a rating of “A” by CDFA, so a pest rating proposal is needed to determine future direction.

History & Status:

Background:  Ceroplastes rusci is considered a serious pest of fruit trees in many countries2.  Fig wax scale feeds by inserting its stylet into host leaves, shoots, and fruit2.  Heavy infestations of the scale cause yellowing, loss of foliage, and poor fruit set2.  The scale is polyphagous, feeding on a wide variety of plants in at least 48 families1.  Economically important hosts include almond, grape, citrus, pistachio, avocado, cotton, fig, palms, pear, and many ornamentals.  Ceroplastes rusci can move long distances through the shipment of infested palm trees as well as other host plants and plant parts.

Worldwide Distribution: Ceroplastes rusci is thought to be native to tropical Africa2.  From there it has spread to parts of the Caribbean, Europe, southwestern Asia, Vietnam, and southern South America1.  The scale has been known to be in Florida since 19941.

Official Control: Ceroplastes rusci is considered a quarantine pest by Australia2 and probably other nations.  The USDA proposal also recommends that it remain a quarantine pest for Hawaii.

California Distribution:  Ceroplastes rusci has never been found in the environment of California.

California Interceptions:  Ceroplastes rusci is regularly intercepted by California, most often on palm nursery stock from Florida.

The risk Ceroplastes rusci (Fig wax scale) would pose to California is evaluated below.

Consequences of Introduction: 

1) Climate/Host Interaction: The present distribution of Ceroplastes rusci corresponds to USDA plant hardiness zones 8-13. This indicates that the scale would be able to establish a widespread distribution over most of California.  The polyphagous nature of the scale makes it likely to encounter suitable hosts throughout this area.  Ceroplastes rusci receives a High(3) in this category.

Evaluate if the pest would have suitable hosts and climate to establish in California.  Score: 3

– 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: Ceroplastes rusci feeds on a wide variety of plants in at least 48 families.  The scale receives a High(3) in this category.

Evaluate the host range of the pest. Score: 3

– 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: Scale insects have high reproductive potential.  Fig wax scale frequently moves long distances in the trade of infested palm trees and other host plant products.  Ceroplastes rusci receives a High(3) in this category.

Evaluate the natural and artificial dispersal potential of the pest. Score: 3

– 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: Ceroplastes rusci feeds on many economically important crops where it has the potential to reduce fruit set2, lowering crop yield.  The scale is likely to increase production costs in the nursery and fruit industries and lower the value of nursery stock by disfiguring plants with its presence.  Fig wax scale is treated as a quarantine pest by Australia and possibly other nations.  The USDA proposal also recommends that the scale remain actionable in Hawaii.  This has the potential to trigger a loss of markets, especially for California’s fresh fruit exports.  Fig wax scale can also vector plant viruses2.  Ceroplastes rusci receives a High(3) in this category.

Evaluate the economic impact of the pest to California using the criteria below. Score:

Economic Impact: A, B, C, E

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: Ceroplastes rusci is not expected to lower biodiversity, disrupt natural communities, or change ecosystem processes.  There are no threatened or endangered plants in California that are likely to be host species.  Fig wax scale is not expected to disrupt critical habitats.  The scale may trigger additional treatment programs in the nursery and fruit industries and by residents who find infested plants unsightly.  It is not expected to significantly impact cultural practices, home/urban gardening, or ornamental plantings.  Ceroplastes rusci receives a Medium(2) in this category.

Evaluate the environmental impact of the pest on California using the criteria below.

Environmental Impact:  D

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.

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.

Consequences of Introduction to California for Ceroplastes rusci (Fig wax scale):  High(14).

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: Ceroplastes rusci has never been detected 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.

Final Score:

The final score is the consequences of introduction score minus the post entry distribution and survey information score: High(14)

Uncertainty:

There have been no formal surveys for Ceroplastes rusci and it is frequently intercepted on palms, so there could be localized populations of the scale within the state.

Conclusion and Rating Justification:

If Ceroplastes rusci were to enter and establish in California it would find many of our high-value crops to be suitable hosts including almond, grape, citrus, pistachio, avocado, cotton, fig, palms, pear, and many ornamentals.  The scale is likely to have significant impacts on these crops including lower yield, increased production costs, lost markets in Hawaii, Australia and other nations, and increased plant pathogen transmission.  Environmental impacts of the scale are expected to be limited to increased treatments by residents and in the nursery and fruit industries.  An A-rating is justified.

References:

1Culliney, T.W.  2014.  Deregulation Evaluation of Established Pests (DEEP); DEEP Report on Ceroplastes rusci (L.): Fig wax scale.

2Vu, Nga Thi, Rod Eastwood, Chat Thi Nguyen, and Lam Van Phan.  2006.  The fig wax scale Ceroplastes rusci (Linnaeus) (Homoptera: Coccidae) in south-east Vietnam:  Pest status, life history and biocontrol trials with Eublemma amabilis Moore (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae).  Entomological Research 36: 196-201.  http://www.oeb.harvard.edu/faculty/pierce/people/eastwood/resources/pdfs/Ceroplastes-2006.pdf

Responsible Party:

Jason Leathers, 1220 N Street, Sacramento, CA, 95814, (916) 654-1211, plant.health[@]cdfa.ca.gov.

Comment Format:

♦  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.

Pest Rating:  A

Posted by ls

Hemiptera, Insects, Mites & Earthworms

Dysmicoccus neobrevipes (Annona/Gray Pineapple Mealybug)

California Pest Rating for
Dysmicoccus neobrevipes (Annona/Gray Pineapple Mealybug)
Hemiptera: Pseudococcidae
Pest Rating: A
PEST RATING PROFILE
Initiating Event:

Dysmicoccus neobrevipes has an internal CDFA rating of “Q”. A permanent pest rating proposal is required to support an official pest rating.

History & Status:

Background: Dysmicoccus neobrevipes is a mealybug with pantropical distribution. It is a highly polyphagous mealybug presenting a host range of more than 40 families of plants, including among others Agave, Ananas, Annona, Brassica, Citrus, Cucurbita, Ficus, Mangifera, Musa, Solanum lycopersicum, and Yucca (4, 10). It vectors pineapple wilt and green spot disease (9) and due to this, it is considered the most economically important pest of pineapple and is the primary cause of pineapple crop failure in Hawaii (3). The Annona mealybug is ovoviviparous; the eggs hatch within the female resulting in live births of young nymphs. One female produces about 350 nymphs in 30 days. Adults are found on leaves, stems, aerial roots and fruit clusters (7).

Worldwide Distribution: Dysmicoccus neobrevipes is thought to be native to tropical America, with a few records from sub-tropical localities. It is found in 39 countries (see 10), including all pineapple growing areas of Fiji, Jamaica, Malaysia, Mexico, Micronesia, Philippines, and Taiwan (3). It is known to have been introduced in China, Japan, Sri Lanka and Lithuania (2).

U.S. Distribution: Dysmicoccus neobrevipes is present in Hawaii and Florida (1, 2, and 10).

U.S. Quarantine Interceptions: Dysmicoccus neobrevipes has been intercepted 3,600 times on a variety of hosts at U.S. ports of entry between 1995 and 2012. This species is commonly intercepted from southern Asia, particularly The Philippines, on a diversity of tropical fruits and from many areas of South America on agave and tropical fruits (4).

Official Control: Dysmicoccus neobrevipes has been listed as a harmful organism in Japan (8).

California Distribution:  Dysmicoccus neobrevipes has not been found in the natural environment in California (5).

California Interceptions:  Dysmicoccus neobrevipes has been intercepted multiple times through border station inspections, dog teams, high risk pest exclusion and through incoming quarantine shipments. Between January 2000 and August 2016, it has been intercepted 71 times (5). It has not yet been found in the natural or agricultural environment in California.

The risk Dysmicoccus neobrevipes (Annona/Gray Pineapple Mealybug) would pose to California is evaluated below.

Consequences of Introduction: 

1) Climate/Host Interaction: Hosts like beans, citrus, cotton, cowpeas, pumpkin and tomatoes are grown throughout California and this presents the possibility of rapid spread and establishment of this pest throughout the state (2). Pineapples and Banana are grown in coastal areas of California and Dysmicoccus neobrevipes could spread and get established in these areas (6). It receives a High (3) in this category.

Evaluate if the pest would have suitable hosts and climate to establish in California:

Score: 3

– 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: Dysmicoccus neobrevipes is highly polyphagous and is found on 40 plant families (10). It receives a High (3) in this category.

Evaluate the host range of the pest:

Score: 3

– 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: Dysmicoccus neobrevipes reproduces parentally. One female can give birth to 350 nymphs in 30 days. The life span averages about 90 days. Larvae, also known as crawlers, have flattened bodies and long hairs which aid in their dispersal by wind. (3). Certain species of caretaking ants aid the mealybugs in colonizing new plants by providing them shelter, protecting them from predators and keeping them clean from secreted honeydew.  It receives a High (3) in this category

Evaluate the natural and artificial dispersal potential of the pest:

Score: 3

– 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: Since the ants aid mealybugs to colonize new plants, there can be significant costs associated with cultural and chemical control of ant species throughout the state on its many hosts. Dysmicoccus neobrevipes is a vector of mealybug wilt and green spot disease of pineapples. The wilt disease alone can cause yield loss of up to 35% in pineapples (9). It receives a High (3) in this category.

Evaluate the economic impact of the pest to California using the criteria below:

Economic Impact:  A, B, E

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: Dysmicoccus neobrevipes is not likely to impact threatened or endangered species. However infestations could trigger additional private treatment by growers. Chemicals used for ant control may have detrimental environmental impacts because of their slow degradation (3). Pineapple and banana growing regions of southern California coast are likely to be impacted by this pest. It receives a High (3) in this category.

Evaluate the environmental impact of the pest on California using the criteria below:

Environmental Impact:  A, D

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.

Consequences of Introduction of Annona/Gray Pineapple Mealybug into California:  High (15)

–Low = 5-8 points

–Medium = 9-12 points

–High = 13-15 points

6) Post Entry Distribution and Survey Information: Dysmicoccus neobrevipes has not been found in the natural or agricultural environment of California. Therefore, it 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:

Score: 0

–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.

Final Score:

The final score is the consequences of introduction score minus the post entry distribution and survey information score: (15)

Uncertainty:

Dysmicoccus neobrevipes has been intercepted many times by CDFA through regulatory pathways. There are ample opportunities for this pest to be introduced into California through various ports of entry.  If it goes undetected, there is a good possibility that it can spread and get established based on its rapid dispersal potential and wide host range.

Conclusion and Rating Justification:

Dysmicoccus neobrevipes has not been found in the natural or agricultural environment in California. If this species were to become established in California, there could be significant economic and environmental impacts. Based on all the above evidence, an “A” rating is proposed at this time.

References:
  1. Egelie, Ashley A and Gillett-Kaufman, Jennifer L., University of Florida, Entomology and Nematology Department: Publication # EENY-635, September 2015 http://entnemdept.ufl.edu/creatures/FRUIT/MEALYBUGS/pineapple_mealybug.htm
  2. Invasive Species Compendium: Distribution maps for plant pests, Accessed 10/14/2016 http://www.cabi.org/isc/datasheet/20251
  3. Kessing JLM, Mau RFL, 2007. Dysmicoccus neobrevipes (Beardsley). Crop Knowledge Master. http://www.extento.hawaii.edu/kbase/crop/type/d_neobre.htm
  4. Miller, D., A. Rung, G. Parikh, G. Venable, A.J. Redford, G.A. Evans, and R.J. Gill. 2014. Scale Insects, Edition 2. USDA APHIS Identification Technology Program (ITP). Fort Collins, CO. [August 13 2016] <http://idtools.org/id/scales/>: Dysmicoccus brevipes (Cockerell) http://idtools.org/id/scales/factsheet.php?name=6966
  5. Pest and Damage Report Database: Plant Health and Pest Prevention Services, California Department of Food and Agriculture: Accessed 9/30/2016
  6. Pineapple fruit facts: California rare fruit Growers https://www.crfg.org/pubs/ff/pineapple.html
  7. Plant Health Australia: Exotic Threat: Pineapple Mealybug- Fact Sheet http://www.planthealthaustralia.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/Grey-pineapple-mealy-bug-FS.pdf
  8. USDA Phytosanitary Certificate Issuance & Tracking System (PCIT): Phytosanitary Export Database (PExD), Accessed 10/13/2016  https://pcit.aphis.usda.gov/PExD/faces/ReportFormat.jsp
  9. Sether DM, Hu JS, 2002. Yield impact and spread of Pineapple mealybug wilt associated virus-2 and mealybug wilt of pineapple in Hawaii. Plant Disease, 86(8):867-874.
  10. ScaleNet: http://scalenet.info/catalogue/Dysmicoccus%20neobrevipes/ Accessed 10/13/2016

Responsible Party:

Raj Randhawa, 1220 ‘N’ Street, Room 221, Sacramento CA 95814, (916)403-6617, plant.health[@]cdfa.ca.gov

Comment Format:

♦  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.

Pest Rating: A

Posted by ls

Hemiptera, Insects, Mites & Earthworms

Howardia biclavis (mining scale)

5119004-mining-scale(Howardia-biclavis)
California Pest Rating for
Howardia biclavis (mining scale)
Hemiptera: Diaspididae
Pest Rating: A
PEST RATING PROFILE
Initiating Event:

Howardia biclavis has an internal CDFA rating of A.
A pest rating proposal is required to support an official pest rating.

History & Status:

Background:  Howardia biclavis is an armored scale insect. It reproduces parthenogenetically without males 2. The number of days for each developmental stage and number of generations per year depend on temperature, humidity and rain fall 3. Howardia biclavis completes its life cycle in 30 days. It infests the bark, leaves and fruit of the host plant by burrowing beneath the epidermal layer. It has a wide host range covering 68 families (194 genera). Recorded hosts include acacia, allamanda, bougainvillea, cassia, fig, ebony, gardenia, hibiscus, ixora, jasmine, kelumpang, lantana, lychee, mango, papaya, plumeria, poinsettia, pulasan, sapodilla, and sapote 4.

Worldwide Distribution: Howardia biclavis is thought to be originated in the New World tropics 7 or Africa 8. It is now found worldwide and has been reported in 71 countries 4. In the Unites States, it was first recorded at Kona, Hawaii in 1895 by Maskell 1.

Official Control: Howardia biclavis has been listed as a harmful organism by Chile, French Polynasia, Republic of Korea, Mexico and Taiwan 5.

California Distribution:  Howardia biclavis was found in California Nurseries prior to 1950 and was eradicated by 1956. It was eradicated subsequently whenever found 9. Based on CDFA pest and damage records database, it has not been detected in California’s natural or agricultural environment between January 2000 through August 2016 10.

California Interceptions:  Howardia biclavis has been intercepted multiple times through border station inspections, dog teams and high risk pest exclusion activities. Between January 2000 and August 2016, it has been intercepted 116 times 10.

The risk Howardia biclavis (Mining scale) would pose to California is evaluated below.

Consequences of Introduction:

1) Climate/Host Interaction: Host plants of Howardia biclavis are grown throughout California and this presents the possibility of rapid spread and establishment of this pest within the state. 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: Howardia biclavis is highly polyphagous and its host range includes 68 plant families covering 194 genera of plants 4. It receives a High (3) 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: Howardia biclavis reproduces parthenogenetically and completes its life cycle in 30 days. The crawler stage of this insect can be easily transported by people, animals, birds, ants and wind currents. Wind also acts as a dispersal agent. Long distance dispersal happens by passive transport of infested material and short distance dispersal occurs when crawlers search out places to settle and feed. 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: Howardia biclavis is expected to lower crop value because it feeds on plant juices and causes loss of vigor, deformation of infested plant parts, loss of leaves and sometimes death of plants. As armored scale are chiefly spread by movement of nursery stock, possibly resulting in quarantine triggers and loss of markets for California grown nursery stock. Mining scale has been reported as an economic pests of woody ornamentals in Florida. It is considered a serious world pest. It 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: Howardia biclavis causes deformation of infested plants. Growers can find the infested plants unsightly. This would significantly impact cultural practices, urban gardening and ornamental plantings. Growers would need additional residential pesticide treatments if it were to infest the urban and ornamental plant environment. It 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.

Consequences of Introduction to California for Mining Scale:  High (15)

–Low = 5-8 points

–Medium = 9-12 points

–High = 13-15 points

6) Post Entry Distribution and Survey Information: Howardia biclavis has not been found and established in natural environment of California. Therefore, it 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.

Final Score:

The final score is the consequences of introduction score minus the post entry distribution and survey information score: (15)

Uncertainty:

Howardia biclavis has been intercepted many times by CDFA. There is a possibility that it may have entered the State and gone undetected. If it goes undetected, there is a good possibility that it will establish on its wide host range.

Conclusion and Rating Justification:

Howardia biclavis has been found in nurseries in California in the 1950’s and was eradicated. It has not been found in the natural environment in the last 15 years, but if it were to become established in the State, there would be significant economic and environmental impacts. Based on all the above evidence presented, an “A” rating is justified.

References:

1 Tenbrink, Victoria L. and Hara, Arnold H. 1992. Hawaii Crop Knowledge Master: Howardia biclavis (Comstock). Accessed: 9/28/2016
http://www.extento.hawaii.edu/kbase/crop/type/h_biclav.htm

2 Brown, S.W. 1965. Chromosomal survey of the armored and palm scale insects (Coccoidea: Diaspididae and Phoenicococcidae) Hilgardia 36: 189-294.

3 Beardsley, J. W. Jr. & R. H. Gonzalez. 1975. The biology and ecology of armored scales. Annual Review of Entomology 20: 47-73.

4 Scale net database: Howardia biclavis (Comstock), Accessed 9/30/2016
http://scalenet.info/catalogue/Howardia%20biclavis/

5 USDA Phytosanitary Certificate Issuance & Tracking System (PCIT): Phytosanitary Export Database (PExD), Accessed 9/28/2016
https://pcit.aphis.usda.gov/PExD/faces/PExDReport.jsp

6 Invasive Species Compendium: Distribution maps for plant pests, Accessed 9/30/2016
http://www.cabi.org/isc/datasheet/27709

7 Miller, D.R. Davidson, J.A. 2005 Armored Scale Insect Pests of Trees and Shrubs. Cornell University Press. xiv + 442 pp.

8 Watson, G.W. 2002 Arthropods of Economic Importance: Diaspididae of the World: Howardia biclavis (mining scale), Accessed 9/29/2016
http://wbd.etibioinformatics.nl/bis/diaspididae.php?selected=beschrijving&menuentry=soorten&id=128

9 Gill, Raymond J. 1997: The Scale Insects of California: Part 3: The Armored Scales (Homoptera Diaspididae). California Department of Food and Agriculture, Technical Series in Agricultural Biosystematics and Plant Pathology, 3: 307 pp. https://www.cdfa.ca.gov/plant/ppd/PDF/Technical_Series_03.pdf

10 Pest and Damage Report Database: Plant Health and Pest Prevention Services, California Department of Food and Agriculture: Accessed 9/30/2016

Responsible Party:

Raj Randhawa, Senior Environmental Scientist; California Department of Food and Agriculture; 1220 N Street, Sacramento, CA 95814; Tel. (916) 654-0312; plant.health[@]cdfa.ca.gov.

Comment Format:

♦  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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Pest Rating: A

Posted by ls

Hemiptera, Insects, Mites & Earthworms

Trioza brevigenae Mathur: Ficus Leaf-rolling Psyllid

38058-FRLP-PhotobyDonald.R.Hodel-UCCE-web
California Pest Rating for
Trioza brevigenae Mathur: Ficus Leaf-rolling Psyllid
Hemiptera: Triozidae
Pest Rating:  B
PEST RATING PROFILE
Initiating Event:

On August 10, 2016 Dr. Alessandra Rung identified a sample of psyllids collected in Carson (Los Angeles County) as Trioza brevigenae, Ficus leaf-rolling psyllid.  On August 25, 2016 USDA National Identification Services confirmed this as a new record for the Western Hemisphere.  A pest rating proposal is required to determine a permanent pest rating.

History & Status:

Background:  Trioza brevigenae is only known to feed on new leaves of curtain fig (Ficus microcarpa).  Feeding causes a distinctive, tight leaf roll.  Trioza brevigenae may be transported long distances when infested plants or fresh plant parts are moved.

Worldwide Distribution: Trioza brevigenae is native to India.  California is the first other location in which it has been reported.

Official Control: Trioza brevigenae is not known to be under official control in any other states or nations.

California Distribution:  Trioza brevigenae has been confirmed from Los Angeles County.  There are also reports of the psyllid from Orange, Ventura, San Diego, Riverside, and San Bernardino Counties.

California Interceptions:  Trioza brevigenae is not known to have ever been intercepted in California.

The risk Trioza brevigenae (Ficus leaf-rolling psyllid) would pose to California is evaluated below.

Consequences of Introduction: 

1) Climate/Host Interaction: Ficus microcarpa is a popular ornamental that grows in USDA plant hardiness zones 9-11, corresponding with much of the San Joaquin Valley, Coastal, and Southern California. Trioza brevigenae is expected to be able to establish throughout these regions wherever suitable host plants are found.  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: Trioza brevigenae is only known to feed on curtain fig (Ficus microcarpa).  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: Psyllids have high reproductive rates and can disperse locally by flying.  They may also be transported long distances when infested plants or leaves are moved or by hitchhiking on clothing, equipment, or animals.  Trioza brevigenae 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: Ficus microcarpa plants are a valuable component of the nursery industry.  However, Trioza brevigenae has already established a widespread distribution in Southern California and there have been no reports of economic impacts.  It is likely that existing nursery practices for other Ficus microcarpa pests are limiting impacts from this new one.  Due to the absence of this psyllid from the entirety of North America there could be disruptions to markets for California produced Ficus microcarpa nursery stock.  Trioza brevigenae 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: Trioza brevigenae is not expected to lower biodiversity, disrupt natural communities, or change ecosystem processes.  It is not likely to affect threatened or endangered species or disrupt critical habitats.  It may trigger new treatment programs by residents who find highly infested landscape plants unacceptable.  Ficus microcarpa trees are widely grown as ornamentals in California and are likely to be significantly impacted by this pest.  Trioza brevigenae 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.

Consequences of Introduction to California for Trioza brevigenae (Ficus leaf-curling psyllind):  Medium (11)

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: Trioza brevigenae has been confirmed from Los Angeles County and is also reported to be widespread across southern California. It receives a Medium (-2) 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.

Final Score:

The final score is the consequences of introduction score minus the post entry distribution and survey information score: Medium (9)

Uncertainty:

There have not been any recent surveys for this psyllid in other parts of California, so it may be more widespread.  Over the last three years many new Ficus pests have been found in southern California including ficus whitefly (Singhiella simplex), ficus eye-spot midge (Horidiplosis ficifolii), Cuban-laurel thrips (Gynaikothrips uzeli), and curtain fig psyllid (Macrohomotoma gladiata).  It is possible that new treatments that are already necessary for these other new pests will preclude some of the economic and environmental impacts from additional new pests such as Trioza brevigenae.  Alternatively, the psyllid might have a larger host range in California than has been documented elsewhere.

Conclusion and Rating Justification:

Trioza brevigenae is considered to be widespread in southern California and is likely to have significant economic and environmental impacts as it expands its range to other parts of the state.  A “B” rating is justified.

References:

1 Hodel, Donald R., Gevork Arakelian, Linda M. Ohara, Cheryl Wilen, and Surendra K. Dara. 2016. The Ficus Leaf-Rolling Psyllid: A New Pest of Ficus microcarpa.  PalmArbor 2016-2: 1-9.  http://ucanr.edu/sites/HodelPalmsTrees/files/242336.pdf

2 Hodel, Donald R., Gevork Arakelian, Linda M. Ohara, Surendra K. Dara, and Cheryl Wilen. 2016. Ficus leaf-rolling psyllid, Trioza brevigenae: a new pest of Ficus microcarpa in southern California.  UC ANR Pest News. http://ucanr.edu/blogs/blogcore/postdetail.cfm?postnum=21788

3 Dara, Surendra K. 2016. A new psyllid pest on ornamental trees in California.  Entomology today.  https://entomologytoday.org/2016/08/23/a-new-psyllid-pest-on-ornamental-trees-in-california/

4 Ficus Tree Encounters New Pest. American Nurseryman.  http://www.amerinursery.com/pest-management/ficus-tree-encounters-new-pest/

Responsible Party:

Jason Leathers, 1220 N Street, Sacramento, CA, 95814, (916) 654-1211, plant.health[@]cdfa.ca.gov.

Pest Rating:  B

Posted by ls 

Hemiptera, Insects, Mites & Earthworms

Asiothrixus antidesmae (Takahashi): Whitefly [No Common Name]

California Pest Rating for
Asiothrixus antidesmae (Takahashi): Whitefly [No Common Name]
Hemiptera: Aleyrodidae
Pest Rating:  A
PEST RATING PROFILE
Initiating Event:

In September 2016 the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) New Pest Advisory Group (NPAG) released a report on Asiothrixus antidesmae that recommended that USDA establish a non-reportable/non-actionable port policy for the whitefly in the continental United States.  Stephen Brown requested comments on this proposal.

History & Status:

Background:  Asiothrixus antidesmae is a whitefly that feeds by sucking phloem from a variety of plants including:  Apocynaceae: Alyxia stellata (maile); Araceae: Alocasia sp. (taro), Anthurium andraeanum (flamingo lily); Calophyllaceae: Calophyllum inophyllum (Alexandrian laurel); Clusiaceae: Garcinia eugenifolia (saptree); Dillenaceae: Dillenia spp.; Lamiaceae: Ocimum spp. (basil); Lecythidaceae: Barringtonia sp.; Phyllanthaceae: Antidesma spp. (chinalaurel); Piperaceae: Piper betel; Rubiaceae: Gardenia jasminoides (cape jasmine), G. taitensis (Tahitian gardenia), Ixora spp., Morinda citrifolia (Indian mulberry); Smilacaceae: Smilax sp.  The whitefly can be transported long distances when infested plants or fresh plant parts are moved.

Worldwide Distribution: Asiothrixus antidesmae is native to Taiwan.  From there is has spread to Nauru, Palau, Tahiti, Western Samoa, Brunei, the Philippines, Singapore, Sulawesi, Thailand, Guadeloupe, and Saint Lucia.  In the United States it has been found in Hawaii, Puerto Rico, and Florida.

Official Control: Asiothrixus antidesmae is not known to be under official control in any other states or nations.

California Distribution:  Asiothrixus antidesmae has never been found in the environment of California.

California Interceptions:  Asiothrixus antidesmae was intercepted by CDFA 6 times between January 1, 1987 and September 27, 2016 on shipments of fresh plant parts from Hawaii, usually betel leaves (Piper betel).

The risk Asiothrixus antidesmae (whitefly) would pose to California is evaluated below.

Consequences of Introduction: 

1) Climate/Host Interaction: According to the NPAG report Asiothrixus antidesmae is expected to establish a widespread distribution in California. 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: Asiothrixus antidesmae is known to feed on plants in 13 genera in 10 families.  It receives a High (3) 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: Whiteflies are capable of rapid reproduction and can be transported long distances when infested plants or fresh plant parts are moved.  Asiothrixus antidesmae 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: Asiothrixus antidesmae is not considered to be an economic pest.  It is not expected to lower crop yields.  It might increase nursery stock production costs.  It is not expected to disrupt markets, change cultural practices, vector other organisms, injure animals, or interfere with water supplies.  Asiothrixus antidesmae 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 Asiothrixus antidesmae were to establish 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.  It might trigger new chemical treatments in the nursery industry and by residents who find infested ornamental plants unacceptable.  A variety of tropical ornamental plantings could be affected by this pest.  Asiothrixus antidesmae 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.

Consequences of Introduction to California for Asiothrixus antidesmae (Whitefly): High (13)

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: Asiothrixus antidesmae 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.

Final Score:

The final score is the consequences of introduction score minus the post entry distribution and survey information score: High (13)

Uncertainty:

There are a wide variety of whiteflies already present in California including some with significantly overlapping host ranges.  It is possible that natural enemies of these existing whiteflies and competitive effects will help mitigate any impacts of Asiothrixus antidesmae.

Conclusion and Rating Justification:

Asiothrixus antidesmae has never been found in California and is expected to have significant economic and environmental impacts if it were to establish in the state.  An “A” rating is justified.

References:

Smith, J.W. 2016.  NPAG Report Asiothrixus antidesmae (Takahashi): Whitefly [no common name].  United States Department of Agriculture New Pest Advisory Group.

Responsible Party:

Jason Leathers, 1220 N Street, Sacramento, CA, 95814, (916) 654-1211, plant.health[@]cdfa.ca.gov.

Pest Rating:  A

Posted by ls 

Hemiptera, Insects, Mites & Earthworms

Fiorinia externa Ferris: Elongate Hemlock Scale

1122010-ElongateHemlockScale-byEricDay-VirginiaPolytech-bugwood-web
California Pest Rating for
Fiorinia externa Ferris:  Elongate Hemlock Scale
Hemiptera:  Diaspididae
Pest Rating:  A
PEST RATING PROFILE
Initiating Event:

Fiorinia externa is often intercepted by CDFA and presently has a temporary rating of “Q”.  A pest rating proposal is required to determine a permanent pest rating.

History & Status:

Background:  Fiorinia externa is an armored scale insect that is considered to be a pest of ornamental and forest conifers1.  These insects overwinter as mated females or eggs1.  Females begin laying eggs within their waxy covers in early spring1.  As eggs hatch, crawlers disperse to other needles on the same plant where they settle on the underside1.  There they insert their mouthparts and feed1.  They reach maturity in 7-8 weeks in Pennsylvania1.  Feeding causes needles to develop yellow banding and drop prematurely1.  This damage causes foliage to appear thin and weakens the trees, making them vulnerable to secondary invaders1.  Known hosts include 43 species2 including: Cupressaceae:  Biota orientalis5, Juniperus chinensis5 (Chinese juniper), Juniperus rigida5 (temple juniper); Pinaceae:  Abies spp.1,3 (firs), Cedrus spp.1 (cedars), Picea spp.1,3 (spruces), Pinus spp.1,3 (pines), Pseudotsuga menziesii1,3 (douglas fir), Tsuga canadensis1,2 (eastern hemlock), T. caroliniana1,2 (Carolina hemlock), and Tsuga diversifolia (northern Japanese hemlock); Taxaceae: Taxus spp.1 (yews).   Fiorinia externa may be carried long distances when infested plants or plant parts are moved.

Worldwide Distribution: Fiorinia externa is native to Japan1,2 and is also found in China5.  It was first found in New York in 19081 and has since been found in Connecticut, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Jersey, Ohio, Rhode Island, Virginia, and the District of Columbia.  Interceptions by CDFA also indicate that the scale is also established in North Carolina.

Official Control: Neither Fiorinia externa nor Fiorinia spp. are known to be under official control by any other states or nations4.

California Distribution:  Fiorinia externa has never been found in the environment of California.

California Interceptions:  Fiorinia externa was intercepted 97 times between January 1, 2000 and December 31, 2014 by CDFA’s high risk inspections, dog teams, and other quarantine programs.  Most of the interceptions have been on fraser fir (Abies fraseri) from North Carolina.

The risk Fiorinia externa (elongate hemlock scale) would pose to California is evaluated below.

Consequences of Introduction: 

1) Climate/Host Interaction: Species of Abies, Picea, Pinus, Pseudotsuga, Taxus, and Tsuga are native to the forests of California and are grown as ornamentals. Fiorinia externa is likely to establish wherever these host plants are grown.  Elongate hemlock scale 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: Fiorinia externa is known to feed on 43 species of plants in 9 genera in three plant families.  It receives a Medium (2) 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: Female elongate hemlock scales produce an average of 20 eggs during their lifetime and a generation may be completed every seven to eight weeks during the growing season1.  Crawlers typically remain on the same plant but may be dispersed long distances by wind or by hitchhiking on clothing, animals, or equipment.  They may also be carried long distances when infested plants or plant parts are moved.  Elongate hemlock scale 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 Fiorinia externa were to enter California it is likely that the scale would lead to lower yields and increased production costs in managed forests, Christmas tree farms, and in the nursery industry.  The scale is not expected to disrupt markets, change cultural practices, vector other pestiferous organisms, injure animals, or interfere with water supplies.  Elongate hemlock scale 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: The establishment of Fiorinia externa in California would be likely to disrupt natural communities, as it infests forests and increases the susceptibility of trees to other pests and diseases.  The scale is not expected to directly affect any threatened or endangered species or disrupt critical habitats.  Elongate scale insect is likely to trigger additional treatment programs in managed forests, Christmas tree farms, and the nursery industry.  The scale is also likely to significantly impact cultural practices and ornamental plantings.  Fiorinia externa 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.

Consequences of Introduction to California for Fiorinia externa (elongate hemlock scale): High (13)

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: Fiorinia externa has never been found in the environment 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.

Final Score:

The final score is the consequences of introduction score minus the post entry distribution and survey information score: High (13)

Uncertainty:

Impacts on forests may potentially be more significant than loss of trees.  Stands of dead trees may affect the rate of runoff and water supplies and could affect the stability of mountain and canyon slopes.  There have not been any recent formal surveys of the scales of conifers in California.  It is possible that Fiorinia externa could be present in some localities.

Conclusion and Rating Justification:

Elongate hemlock scale (Fiorinia externa) has never been found in the environment of California and would likely have significant economic and environmental impacts if it were to enter the state.  An “A”-rating is justified.

References:

1 Hoover, Gregory A. 2009. Elongate Hemlock Scale (Fiorinia externa Ferris) Fact Sheet.  Pennsylvania State University.  http://ento.psu.edu/extension/factsheets/elongate-hemlock-scale

2 McClure, Mark S.  Pest Alert: Elongate Hemlock Scale.  USDA Forest Service Northeastern Area NA-PR-01-02  http://www.na.fs.fed.us/spfo/pubs/pest_al/ehscale/ehscale.htm

3 Elongate Hemlock Scale Fiorinia externa Ferris.  PSU Christmas Tree Pest Fact Sheets.  http://extension.psu.edu/pests/ipm/agriculture/christmas-tree/pest-fact-sheets/needle-discoloration-and-injury/elongate-hemlock-scale.pdf

4 USDA Phytosanitary Certificate Issuance & Tracking System (PCIT) Phytosanitary Export Database (PExD).  https://pcit.aphis.usda.gov/pcit/

5 SEL Catalog Query results for Fiorinia externa Ferris.  http://www.sel.barc.usda.gov/catalogs/diaspidi/Fioriniaexterna.htm

Responsible Party:

Jason Leathers, 1220 N Street, Sacramento, CA, 95814, (916) 654-1211, plant.health[@]cdfa.ca.gov.

Pest Rating:  A

Posted by ls