Category Archives: Insects, Mites & Earthworms

Entomology: Insects, Mites & Earthworms

Gastropoda, Insects, Mites & Earthworms

A Semi-Slug | Parmarion martensi (Simroth)

California Pest Rating for
A Semi-Slug  |  Parmarion martensi (Simroth)
Gastropoda: Helicarionidae
Pest Rating: A
PEST RATING PROFILE
Initiating Event:

Parmarion martensi has been intercepted by CDFA and presently has a temporary “Q” rating.  A pest rating proposal is required to determine a permanent pest rating.

History & Status:

Background:  Parmarion martensi is a terrestrial semi-slug that is polyphagous on a variety of living and decaying plant material.  In Hawaii a survey found the semi-slug on: green plants: lettuce, fennel, sweet potato, banana, passion fruit, lemongrass, Heliconia; fallen fruit: avocado, guava, citrus, papaya, mango; under plastic or plastic-like materials: black plastic sheeting, tarps, drainpipes, plant pots; compost and trash cans; food preparation and sink areas: outdoor sinks, dishes, grills, a toothbrush; pet food; structures: decks, walkways, walls; palm trees; catchment tanks; ripe fruit: papaya; miscellaneous plant debris1.  Semi-slugs may be transported long distances when infested plants or plant parts are moved.

Worldwide Distribution: Parmarion martensi is presumably native to continental Southeast Asia1.  It has also been found in Sumatra, Java, Borneo, Japan, Taiwan, Samoa, and American Samoa1.  It was first found in Hawaii on the islands of O’ahu in 1996 and Hawai’i in 20041.

Official Control: Parmarion martensi is not known to be under official control in any other states or nations2.

California Distribution:  Parmarion martensi has never been found in the environment of California.

California Interceptions:  Since March 2009 Parmarion martensi has been intercepted by CDFA’s high risk programs and dog teams 37 times on nursery stock and plant parts imported from Hawaii.

The risk Parmarion martensi would pose to California is evaluated below.

Consequences of Introduction: 

1) Climate/Host Interaction: Parmarion martensi is a polyphagous semi-slug and is likely able to establish anywhere suitable moisture is available 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: Parmarion martensi is polyphagous on a wide variety of living and decaying plants.  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: Parmarion martensi produces large numbers egg masses1 and may be transported long distances when infested nursery stock is moved.  It receives a High (3) in this category.

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

– Low (1) does not have high reproductive or dispersal potential.

– Medium (2) has either high reproductive or dispersal potential.

– High (3) has both high reproduction and dispersal potential.

4) Economic Impact: Parmarion martensi is an efficient vector of the parasitic nematode that causes rat lungworm disease in humans1.  The semi-slug often feeds on green plants such as lettuce, contaminating the produce with nematodes that can be present in tiny immature semi-slugs or slime.  This could have significant impacts on California’s salad industry.  Although the semi-slug is not known to be on any quarantine list, its presence in the state may affect markets for California produce if any of it were found to be contaminated with rat lungworm disease.  This may lower crop yields if produce were unmarketable and increase crop production costs as growers ensure that fields are free from Parmarion martensi.  The semi-slug receives a High (3) in this category.

Evaluate the economic impact of the pest to California using the criteria below. Score: 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: High (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: Parmarion martensi 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 semi-slug is likely to trigger additional treatment programs in the nursery industry, by growers, and by residents who find contaminated produce unacceptable.  As an efficient vector of the nematode that causes rat lungworm disease, Parmarion martensi has the potential to significantly impact home/urban gardening by sickening residents.  The semi-slug 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. Score: High (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 Parmarion martensi: 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: Parmarion martensi 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 (15)

Uncertainty: 

There have been no recent surveys for semi-slugs in California.  It is possible that some of them could have eluded inspections and made it into the state.

Conclusion and Rating Justification:

Parmarion martensi has never been found in California and is likely to have significant economic and environmental impacts if it were to establish here.  An “A” rating is justified.

References:

1 Hollingsworth, R.G., R. Kaneta, J.J. Sullivan, H.S. Bishop, Y. Qvarnstrom, A.J. da Silva, and D.G. Robinson. 2007. Distribution of Parmarion cf. martensi (Pulmonata: Helicarionidae); a new Semi-Slug Pest on Hawai’i island, and its potential as a Vector for Human Angiostrongyliasis.  Pacific Science 61(4): 457-467.

2 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.

Pest Rating: A

Posted by ls

Hymenoptera, Insects, Mites & Earthworms

Camponotus modoc Wheeler: Modoc Carpenter Ant

California Pest Rating for
Camponotus modoc Wheeler: Modoc Carpenter Ant
Hymenoptera: Formicidae
Pest Rating:  C
PEST RATING PROFILE
Initiating Event:

At least one ant hobbyist is selling queen ants of Camponotus modoc in California.1  A pest rating proposal is required to determine future direction on this ant.

History & Status:

Background:  Camponotus modoc is a carpenter ant that inhabits montane forests.2,3  It is a generalist forager on dead and living insects, nectar, fruit juices, and honeydew2.  It nests by excavating galleries in wood such as trees, wood piles, and landscaping materials2.  Colonies may be transported long distances when infested wood is moved.

Worldwide Distribution: Camponotus modoc is native to the western United States and Canada3.  It is not known to have invaded any other states or nations.

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

California Distribution:  Camponotus modoc is native to California and commonly found in montane forests.

California Interceptions:  Camponotus modoc was intercepted once by CDFA’s border stations in pine firewood from Nevada.

The risk Camponotus modoc (Modoc Carpenter Ant) would pose to California is evaluated below.

Consequences of Introduction: 

1) Climate/Host Interaction: Camponotus modoc is native to and widespread in California and is not likely to establish in parts of the state where it does not already occur. It receives a Low (1) 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: Camponotus modoc is a generalist forager and is considered a destructive pest when it excavates galleries in wooden structures.  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: Ants typically have high reproductive rates.  Camponotus modoc has only been intercepted by CDFA once.  It receives a Medium (2) 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: Camponotus modoc is already widespread and is not known to have lowered any crop yields or reduced crop values.  Its presence has not disrupted any markets.  It has not changed cultural practices or vectored other organisms.  It is not known to have injured any animals or interfered with any water supplies.  It 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: Camponotus modoc is native to and widespread in California and it has not been found to lower biodiversity, disrupt natural communities, or change ecosystem processes.  It has not affected any threatened or endangered species or disrupted critical habitats.  The ant does trigger additional treatment programs when it infests wooden structures2.  Camponotus modoc is not known to have impacted cultural practices, home/urban gardening, or ornamental plantings.  It receives a Medium (2) in this category.

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

A. The pest could have a significant environmental impact such as lowering biodiversity, disrupting natural communities, or changing ecosystem processes.

B. The pest could directly affect threatened or endangered species.

C. The pest could impact threatened or endangered species by disrupting critical habitats.

D. The pest could trigger additional official or private treatment programs.

E. The pest significantly impacts cultural practices, home/urban gardening or ornamental plantings.

Score the pest for Environmental Impact. Score:

– Low (1) causes none of the above to occur.

– Medium (2) causes one of the above to occur.

– High (3) causes two or more of the above to occur.

Consequences of Introduction to California for Camponotus modoc (Modoc Carpenter Ant):  Low (8)

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: Camponotus modoc is considered to be widespread and common in California. It receives a High (-3) 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: Low (5)

Uncertainty:

There is low uncertainty with this ant.

Conclusion and Rating Justification:

Camponotus modoc is a native ant that is widespread in California and is not reported to have had any negative economic impacts.  It may have limited environmental impacts by triggering new chemical treatments when it infests wooden structures.  No significant impacts are expected from hobbyists trading colonies of this ant within the state, provided that they adequately protect against the escape of colonies or queen ants into urban and rural residential environments.

References:

1 The AntsCanada Global Ant Nursery Project.  http://www.antscanada.com/queen-ants-for-sale/

2 UC IPM: How to Manage Pests of Homes, Structures, People, and Pets: Carpenter Ants:  http://www.ipm.ucdavis.edu/PMG/PESTNOTES/pn7416.html

3 AntWiki: Camponotus modoc  http://www.antwiki.org/wiki/Camponotus_modoc

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:  C

Posted by ls

Insects, Mites & Earthworms, Lepidoptera

Terastia meticulosalis Guenée: Erythrina Twigborer

California Pest Rating for
Terastia meticulosalis Guenée: Erythrina Twigborer
Lepidoptera: Crambidae
Pest Rating:  B
PEST RATING PROFILE
Initiating Event:

In October 2015 larvae collected from coral tree plants at a nursery in Oceanside (San Diego County) were confirmed by molecular diagnostics to be Terastia meticulosalis, Erythrina twigborer.  A pest rating proposal is required to determine future direction on this pest.

History & Status:

Background:  Terastia meticulosalis is a moth that feeds on coral trees (Erythrina spp.).  Early instar caterpillars are found inside the stems, leaf stalks, and seed pods1.  Their feeding can cause the tip of the host plant to die back and gradually kill off the upper part of the plant1.  Larvae typically exit the plant to pupate on the ground.  The damage attributed to this moth is reported to make the cultivation of Erythrina nearly impossible in Florida3.  This moth may be transported long distances when infested plants are moved.

Worldwide Distribution: Terastia meticulosalis is native to Central and South America1.  The moth is known to occur in the southern United States from Florida and South Carolina west to Arizona1.  Populations of Terastia spp. in other areas are presently considered to be different species1.

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

California Distribution:  The only confirmed record of this moth from the environment of California was collected in November 2015 from the Los Angeles County Arboretum.  Unofficial records indicate that the moth may be more widespread (see Uncertainty section below).

California Interceptions:  Terastia meticulosalis has only been intercepted in two nurseries in San Diego County.

The risk Terastia meticulosalis (Erythrina twigborer) would pose to California is evaluated below.

Consequences of Introduction: 

1) Climate/Host Interaction: Erythrina are commonly grown as ornamentals in southern and coastal California and Terastia meticulosalis is expected to establish wherever suitable hosts are available. It receives a Medium (2) in this category.

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

– Low (1) Not likely to establish in California; or likely to establish in very limited areas.
– Medium (2) may be able to establish in a larger but limited part of California.
– High (3) likely to establish a widespread distribution in California.

2) Known Pest Host Range: Terastia meticulosalis is only known to feed on coral trees in the genus Erythrina.  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: Terastia meticulosalis is assumed to be capable of rapid reproduction and may be transported long distances when infested plants are moved.  The moth 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 Terastia meticulosalis were to become established in California it is not expected to lower any crop yields.  It may reduce the value of Erythrina nursery stock and increase production costs of those trees.  The moth is not expected to disrupt any markets, change cultural practices, vector other organisms, injure animals, or interfere with water supplies.  Terastia meticulosalis 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: Terastia meticulosalis is not expected to lower biodiversity, disrupt natural communities, or change ecosystem practices.  It is not likely to directly affect threatened or endangered species or disrupt critical habitats.  It may trigger additional treatment programs in the nursery industry and by residents who wish to save their coral trees.  Coral trees are grown as ornamentals in southern California and may be extirpated by Terastia meticulosalis.  Erythrina twigborer 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 Terastia meticulosalis (Erythrina twigborer):  Medium (10)

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: The only official sample of Terastia meticulosalis in California was collected from a site in Los Angeles County. It receives a Low (-1) in this category.

Evaluate the known distribution in California. Only official records identified by a taxonomic expert and supported by voucher specimens deposited in natural history collections should be considered. Pest incursions that have been eradicated, are under eradication, or have been delimited with no further detections should not be included.

–Not established (0) Pest never detected in California, or known only from incursions.
–Low (-1) Pest has a localized distribution in California, or is established in one suitable climate/host area (region).
–Medium (-2) Pest is widespread in California but not fully established in the endangered area, or pest established in two contiguous suitable climate/host areas.
–High (-3) Pest has fully established in the endangered area, or pest is reported in more than two contiguous or non-contiguous suitable climate/host areas.

Final Score:

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

Uncertainty:  

Unconfirmed sightings indicate that this moth could be much more widespread in California including Long Beach (September 21, 2015 – Los Angeles County), Mount Washington (October 25, 2015 – Los Angeles County), and Irvine (November 26, 2015 – Orange County)2.  There have not been any recent formal surveys for this moth in California.

Conclusion and Rating Justification:

Terastia meticulosalis is only known to be established in Los Angeles County.  However, if it were to establish a more widespread distribution in the state it is likely to have significant economic and environmental impacts to coral trees in the nursery industry and California landscape.  A “B” rating is justified.

References:

1 Sourakov, Andrei. 2012. Common name: Erythrina moths. University of Florida Featured Creatures.  http://entnemdept.ufl.edu/creatures/orn/shrubs/erythrina_moths.htm

2 What’s That Bug?  http://www.whatsthatbug.com/2015/10/25/erythrina-borer-visits-wtb-offices/

3 Sourakov, Andrei. 2011. Nice partitioning, co-evolution and life histories of Erythrina moths, Terastia meticulosalis and Agathodes designalis (Lepidoptera: Crambidae). Trop. Lepid. Res. 21(2): 84-94. http://troplep.org/TLR/21-2/Sourakov-Niche-partitioning-erythrina-moths-TLR-21-2.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:  B

Posted by ls

Hemiptera, Insects, Mites & Earthworms

Thysanofiorinia nephelii (Maskell): Longan Scale

California Pest Rating for
Thysanofiorinia nephelii (Maskell): Longan Scale
Hemiptera: Diaspididae
Pest Rating:  B
PEST RATING PROFILE
Initiating Event:

August 23, 2012 Ron Eng (CDFA) requested a permanent rating for longan scale (Thysanofiorinia nephelii) as follow-up to a find of the Q-rated pest on a longan tree in a nursery in Santa Ana.

History & Status:

Background:  Longan scale is an armored scale insect that is sometimes considered a pest of the tropical fruits longan (Dinocarps longan) and lychee (Litchi chinensis).  In addition to those primary hosts it has also been occasionally recorded on other hosts:  “Kentia sp.” (a palm), “Cassia” (a leguminous tree), Euphorbia longena (a spurge), and Indigofera sp. (a flowering plant) (SEL).  Longan scale may be spread long distances by the movement of infested plants and fruit.

Worldwide Distribution: Longan scale is believed to be native to mainland Asia (India to China) but has invaded Australia, Japan, Taiwan, the Northern Mariana Islands, Brazil, Cuba, Algeria, and Hawaii (sometime before 1932).  It was first detected in Florida, the nation’s leading producer of longan and lychee fruit, in 1996 and considered an emerging pest.  Although it had spread to seven counties by 2007, there were no reports of significant economic damage (Suh et.al. 2007).

Official Control:  Thysanofiorinia nephelii is not known to be under official control in any other states or nations.  The scale was downgraded to non-actionable by USDA in March 2011.

California Distribution:  Longan scale has never been collected in the environment in California.

California Interceptions:  This scale was found in regulatory situations by CDFA 164 times between 1992 and August 2012.  The majority of these were interceptions of crawlers (the 1st instar nymphs) on longan and lychee fruit purchased out of state.  The scale has also been found 5 times on trees in nurseries.

The risk Thysanofiorinia nephelii (longan scale) would pose to California is evaluated below.

Consequences of Introduction: 

1) Climate/Host Interaction: Longan scale has not spread beyond southern Florida since it established there. Longan and lychee are only grown in limited areas of Southern California and the scale would probably be restricted to those areas if it were to enter the state.  Longan scale receives a Low (1) rating for 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: Longan scale feeds primarily on longan and lychee, two tropical sapindaceous fruit trees in two different genera.  However, it has also been reported on four other hosts in three different plant families.  Longan scale receives a Medium (2) for host range.

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: Scale insects have high reproductive rates.  Crawlers of longan scale have been intercepted on longan and lychee fruit many times and may be able to disperse through this pathway.  However, fruit would have to be disposed of in close proximity to a host tree.  Adult female longan scales have been detected on trees in nurseries.  This pathway is how the longan scale is thought to have spread within Florida (Suh et. al. 2007) and is the highest risk pathway for spread within California.  Due to its ability to move long distances through nursery stock longan 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: California has approximately 23 ha of longan and lychee orchards (Crane et. al. 2005) worth an estimated $500,000 annually.  Additionally, there is a market for longan and lychee nursery stock in Southern California.  Furthermore, discussions on internet forums indicate there is interest among residents in growing more longan and lychee fruit in the state.  However, no major economic damage has been reported from the introduction of this scale to Florida’s industry.  Longan scale is not expected to lower yields on these trees but it could increase production costs in some cases by triggering chemical treatment.  It is presumed that the fruits grown in California are produced for domestic consumption so no export issues are considered.  Longan scale is not known to vector any pathogens, injure animals, or interfere with water supplies.  Longan scale receives a Low (1) for economic impact.

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: Longan scale is not expected to lower biodiversity, disrupt natural communities, or change ecosystem processes.  There are no plants listed in California’s threatened and endangered plant list from the genera listed as hosts for the scale (Dinocarps, Litchi, Kentia, Euphorbia, Cassia, or Indigofera).  The scale is not expected to disrupt critical habitats.  Although the scales are often controlled by natural enemies in Florida they do sometimes reach high populations that require additional treatment programs.  The scale is not expected to significantly change cultural practices, home/urban gardening, or ornamental plantings.  Longan scale receives a Medium (2) for environmental impact.

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 Thysanofiorinia nephelii (Longan Scale): Medium(9)

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: Longan scale 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:  Medium(9)

Uncertainty:

A variety of ants that tend Homoptera, such as longan scale, are abundant in California.  Ants could protect the scales from natural enemies, causing them to reach higher populations more rapidly than in Florida, thereby triggering more chemical treatments.  The market for Asian fruit is expanding in the United States.  Although lychee and longan do not thrive in California at present, changes in technology or the environment could change this in the future.  If lychee and longan production were to expand in California in the future then longan scale may become a more damaging insect.  Furthermore, the possibility exists that longan scale could colonize additional host plants in California.

Longan scale was intercepted in regulatory situations 164 times between 1992 and 2012.  Presumably the scale enters California many additional times and is not intercepted.  Since it has never been found in our environment, it is possible that environmental conditions (such as the lack of humidity) preclude its establishment.  Alternatively, it is possible that the scale is already here and no one has looked for or noticed it.

Conclusion and Rating Justification:

Evidence suggests that the introduction of Longan Scale would be of low economic consequences to California.  Despite the scale’s invasive nature and ability to travel in international and domestic trade of longan and lychee fruit and nursery stock, there is only one scientific paper in the literature that mentions its pest potential.  It has not had major economic consequences since its detection in Florida in 1996.  The pest has a limited host range and would probably not affect the environment of California, with the exception of possible additional treatments by longan and lychee growers.

Evidence also suggests that the introduction of longan scale to California is highly likely to happen.  It has been detected in regulatory situations many times.  It is likely to survive post-harvest treatments and shipment to California.  Due to the small size of crawlers and immobility of adults it is likely to at least occasionally escape detection by inspectors.  It is capable of living on and spreading through nursery stock and is likely to be introduced to favorable environments for establishment through that pathway.

The scale has never been detected in the environment of California.  Additionally, rare fruit markets are expanding and we do have a small commercial longan and lychee fruit industry that may be affected by the pest.  Therefore, it is recommended that the permanent pest rating be set to “B”.

References:

Crane, J.H., Zee, F., Bender, G.S., Faber, B., Brunner, B. and Chia, C.L. 2005. COMMERCIAL

SAPINDACEOUS FRUIT PRODUCTION IN THE USA. Acta Hort. (ISHS) 665:93-104

http://www.actahort.org/books/665/665_11.htm

Suh, S.J., G. S. Hodges, and A. C. Hodges.  2007.  Notes on the Longan Scale, Thysanofiorinia nephelii (Hemiptera: Coccoidea: Diaspididae) in Florida.  Florida Entomologist 90(2): 407-409.  http://journals.fcla.edu/flaent/article/view/75670/73328

SEL:   http://www.sel.barc.usda.gov/catalogs/diaspidi/Thysanofiorinianephelii.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:  B

Posted by ls

Hemiptera, Insects, Mites & Earthworms

Lindingaspis floridana Ferris: Floridana Scale

California Pest Rating for
Lindingaspis floridana Ferris: Floridana Scale
Hemiptera: Diaspididae
Pest Rating:  B
PEST RATING PROFILE
Initiating Event:

Lindingaspis floridana was intercepted by a CDFA dog team in a parcel of mango fruit shipped from Florida to Sacramento.  This insect presently has a temporary rating of “Q”.  A pest rating proposal is required to support a permanent pest rating.

History & Status:

Background:  Lindingaspis floridana is an armored scale insect that feeds on the leaves of mango (Mangifera indica), fig (Ficus spp.), and olive (Olea spp.)1.  It may be transported long distances when infested plants or fresh plant parts are moved.

Worldwide Distribution: Lindingaspis floridana is presumably native to Asia.  It was first found in Florida in 19212.  It has also spread to Haiti and Jamaica1.

Official Control: Lindingaspis floridana is listed as a harmful organism by Costa Rica, Japan, and Korea3.

California Distribution:  Lindingaspis floridana has never been found in the environment of California.

California Interceptions:  Lindingaspis floridana has been intercepted by CDFA’s dog teams and high risk programs 6 times since August 1, 2014.  It was also intercepted once on July 3, 2001.  All of the interceptions for which data was recorded occurred on mango fruit.

The risk Lindingaspis floridana (floridana scale) would pose to California is evaluated below.

Consequences of Introduction: 

1) Climate/Host Interaction: Species of Ficus and Olea are commonly planted as ornamentals and crops throughout much of California. Mango plants are restricted to warmer parts of the state.  Lindingaspis floridana is likely capable of establishment everywhere suitable hosts are available.  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: Lindingaspis floridana is known to feed on three genera of plants 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: Scale insects have high reproductive rates and may disperse long distances when infested plants or plant parts are moved.  They may also be spread by wind or by hitchhiking on plants, animals, or equipment.  Lindingaspis floridana 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: Although Lindingaspis floridana feeds on economically important plants, it is not considered to be a pest2.  There is a closely related similar scale, Lindingaspis rossi, that is already present in California4,5. Lindingaspis rossi is highly polyphagous and feeds on the leaves of many plants including all of the hosts of Lindingaspis floridana5. Therefore if Lindingaspis floridana were to establish in California it is not expected to have major economic impacts.  It is not expected to lower crop yields, lower crop values, change cultural practices, vector other organisms, injure animals, or interfere with water supplies.  However, Costa Rica, Japan and Korea list Lindingaspis floridana on their harmful organism lists3.  Japan, Korea, and Vietnam list Lindingaspis rossi on their harmful organism lists3.  It is therefore possible that Lindingaspis floridana could affect exports to some markets such as Costa Rica.  Lindingaspis floridana 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 Lindingaspis floridana were to establish in California it 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.  It is not likely to trigger new treatment programs or have significant impacts to cultural practices, home/urban gardening, or ornamental plantings.  Lindingaspis floridana receives a Low (1) 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 Lindingaspis floridana (Floridana Scale):  Medium (10)

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: Lindingaspis floridana 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: Medium (10)

Uncertainty:

Lindingaspis rossi is already present in California and feeds on the same hosts as Lindingaspis floridana as well as many other plants.  There have been no formal surveys to look for Lindingaspis floridana in California.  It is therefore possible that Lindingaspis floridana may already be present in some localities in California but has not been recognized as something new.

Conclusion and Rating Justification:

Lindingaspis floridana has never been found in California.  If it were to establish in the state it might have trade impacts.  A “B” rating is justified.

References:

1 SEL Catalogue Query Results/ScaleNet: Lindingaspis floridana Ferris.  http://www.sel.barc.usda.gov/catalogs/diaspidi/Lindingaspisfloridana.htm

2 Miller, Douglass R., Gary L. Miller, Greg S. Hodges, and John A. Davidson. 2005. Introduced Scale Insects (Hemiptera: Coccoidea) of the United States and Their Impact on U.S. Agriculture. Proc. Entomol. Soc. Wash. 107(1):123-158.  http://naldc.nal.usda.gov/download/40540/PDF

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

4 McKenzie, Howard L. 1956. The Armored Scale Insects of California. Bulletin of the California Insect Survey Volume 5.  http://essig.berkeley.edu/documents/cis/cis05.pdf

5 SEL Catalogue Query Results/ScaleNet: Lindingaspis rossi (Maskell). http://www.sel.barc.usda.gov/catalogs/diaspidi/Lindingaspisrossi.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:  B

Posted by ls

Coleoptera, Insects, Mites & Earthworms

Ananca bicolor (Fairmaire): Red-Black False Blister Beetle

California Pest Rating for
Ananca bicolor (Fairmaire): Red-Black False Blister Beetle
Coleoptera: Oedemeridae
Pest Rating:  B
PEST RATING PROFILE
Initiating Event:

The false blister beetle Ananca bicolor was recently intercepted by CDFA’s high risk programs on a shipment of Plumeria cut flowers from Hawaii.  The beetle is presently assigned a temporary rating of “Q”.  A pest rating proposal is required to support a permanent pest rating.

History & Status:

Background:  Ananca bicolor adults are nocturnal and highly attracted to lights1,2.  They are considered a nuisance pest and may enter dwellings in large numbers.  The adult beetles feed on pollen.  The larvae are not well documented but similar beetle grubs feed on rootlets and rhizomes3.  Ananca bicolor may be transported long distances when infested cut flowers are moved or as a contaminating pest.

Worldwide Distribution: Ananca bicolor is Polynesian in origin4.  It is known to be established in Samoa, Tahiti, Marquesas, Tonga, Ellice Island, and New Hebrides4.  It invaded Hawaii sometime before 18854.

Official Control: Ananca bicolor is not listed on any nations’ harmful organisms lists5 and is not known to be under official control anywhere.

California Distribution:  Ananca bicolor has never been found in the environment of California.

California Interceptions:  Ananca bicolor has been intercepted by CDFA four times. Three interceptions were on cut Plumeria flowers from Hawaii and one was on green vegetables.

The risk Ananca bicolor (Red-black false blister beetle) would pose to California is evaluated below.

Consequences of Introduction: 

1) Climate/Host Interaction: Ananca bicolor is only known to be established on tropical islands.  Almost all oedemerid larvae are limited to wet/moist environments.  This indicates that if the beetle were to establish in California it is likely to be limited to warm coastal areas.  It receives a Low (1) 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: Ananca bicolor adults are polyphagous on a wide variety of pollen.  Grubs are presumed to be equally polyphagous on organic matter in soil.  The beetle 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: In Hawaii Ananca bicolor occurs in large numbers indicating that it likely has a high reproductive rate.  Despite its abundance and more than a century of transoceanic commerce, Ananca bicolor has not spread beyond Polynesia, indicating that it does not often spread via trade.  Ananca bicolor receives a Medium (2) 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 Ananca bicolor were to establish in California it is not expected to lower any crop yields.  It may lower the value of cut flowers and flowering nursery stock by contaminating plants with its presence.  It is not likely to trigger lost markets, change cultural practices, vector other organisms, injure animals, or interfere with water supplies.  Ananca bicolor 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 Ananca bicolor 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.  Since adult beetles are attracted to lights in large numbers, they may trigger new private treatment programs by residents who find them to be a nuisance.  The beetles are not likely to have significant impacts on cultural practices, home/urban gardening, or ornamental plantings.  Ananca bicolor receives a Medium (2) in this category.

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

A. The pest could have a significant environmental impact such as lowering biodiversity, disrupting natural communities, or changing ecosystem processes.
B. The pest could directly affect threatened or endangered species.
C. The pest could impact threatened or endangered species by disrupting critical habitats.
D. The pest could trigger additional official or private treatment programs.
E. The pest significantly impacts cultural practices, home/urban gardening or ornamental plantings.

Score the pest for Environmental Impact. Score:

– Low (1) causes none of the above to occur.
– Medium (2) causes one of the above to occur.
– High (3) causes two or more of the above to occur.

Consequences of Introduction to California for Ananca bicolor (Red-Black False Blister Beetle):  Medium (9)

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: Ananca bicolor has not 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: Medium (9)

Uncertainty: 

California does have a rich oedemerid and melyrid fauna, which would be the direct competitors of Ananca bicolor.  If this new beetle were to establish in California it might outcompete and displace these native beetles.  It is possible that Ananca bicolor may be able to adapt to wider variety of climates and colonize a larger part of California.

Conclusion and Rating Justification:

Ananca bicolor has never been found in California and is likely to have impacts on the cut-flower and nursery industries and become a nuisance to residents if it were to establish in the state.  A “B” rating is justified.

References:

1 Kinsey, Beth T. 2015. Red-black False Blister Beetle.  The Firefly Forest.  http://fireflyforest.net/firefly/2009/07/08/red-black-false-blister-beetle/

2 Tenorio, JoAnn M. and Gordon M. Nishida. 1995. What’s Bugging Me?: Identifying and Controlling Household Pests in Hawaii. University of Hawaii Press. 184pp.  https://books.google.com/books?id=2ehBWyagf2gC&pg=PA69&lpg=PA69&dq=Ananca+bicolor&source=bl&ots=ROFVnohzQs&sig=K-jbQylsU-8-EjiOcwGtf-8ARV8&hl=en&sa=X&ei=-HaMVdjENIvooAS00r24Dw&ved=0CEAQ6AEwBzgK#v=onepage&q=Ananca%20bicolor&f=false

3 Arnett, Ross H. Jr. 2014. Common Name: False Blister Beetles. University of Florida Featured Creatures. http://entnemdept.ufl.edu/creatures/urban/medical/false_blister_beetles.htm#top

4 Swezey, O.H. 1939. Notes on Oedemeridae in Hawaii and Palmyra. Proc. Haw. Ent. Soc. 10(2):263-264.  http://scholarspace.manoa.hawaii.edu/bitstream/handle/10125/15990/PHES10_263-264.pdf?sequence=1

5 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:  B

Posted by ls

Diptera, Insects, Mites & Earthworms

Ophiomyia kwansonis Sasakawa: Daylily Leafminer

California Pest Rating for
Ophiomyia kwansonis Sasakawa: Daylily Leafminer
Diptera: Agromyzidae
Pest Rating:  B
PEST RATING PROFILE
Initiating Event:

June 23, 2015 Dr. Martin Hauser tentatively identified an intercepted insect as Ophiomyia kwansonis.  This is the first time this insect has been intercepted by CDFA and a pest rating proposal is required to determine future direction on this insect.

History & Status:

Background:  Ophiomyia kwansonis is a leafmining fly that feeds on the leaves of daylilies (Hemerocallis spp.)1,2.  Adult female flies typically lay eggs near the tip of the leaf blade1.  As larvae feed they create mines that appear as long, prominent, whitish lines1.  Larvae pupate in mines, often near the leaf base1.  Mining does not kill plants1.  Daylily leafminer may be transported long distances when infested daylilies are moved.

Worldwide Distribution: Ophiomyia kwansonis is native to Japan and Taiwan2.  In March 2011 it was first found in the United States in a nursery in Florida1 and by 2014 had been found in Alabama, Arkansas, Connecticut, Delaware, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Mississippi, Missouri, New Hampshire, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, and West Virginia2.  It has also spread to Europe1.

Official Control: Ophiomyia kwansonis is not listed as a harmful organism by any states or nations3 and is not known to be under official control in any locations.

California Distribution: No official samples of Ophiomyia kwansonis have ever been collected in California.  However, there is a published report of a photograph from Irvine (Orange County) that shows a plant that has likely been damaged by the fly4.

California Interceptions:  Ophiomyia kwansonis has only been intercepted once by CDFA on a shipment of daylilies (Hemerocalis sp.) from Delaware to Contra Costa County (PDR 070P06223714).

The risk Ophiomyia kwansonis (daylily leafminer) would pose to California is evaluated below.

Consequences of Introduction: 

1) Climate/Host Interaction: Ophiomyia kwansonis is widespread in the eastern United States and it is expected to be able to establish anywhere that daylilies are grown. Daylily leafminer receives a High (3) in this category.

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

– Low (1) Not likely to establish in California; or likely to establish in very limited areas.
– Medium (2) may be able to establish in a larger but limited part of California.
– High (3) likely to establish a widespread distribution in California.

2) Known Pest Host Range: Ophiomyia kwansonis is only known to feed on daylilies (Hemerocallis) and receives a Low (1) in this category.

Evaluate the host range of the pest. Score:

– Low (1) has a very limited host range.
– Medium (2) has a moderate host range.
– High (3) has a wide host range.

3) Pest Dispersal Potential: Ophiomyia kwansonis has a high reproductive potential.  It can complete 2-3 generations per year in cooler climates and breed continuously under warm conditions1,2.  The leafminer may disperse locally by flying and may be transported long distances as eggs, larvae, or pupae on infested daylilies.  Daylily leafminer receives a High (3) in this category.

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

– Low (1) does not have high reproductive or dispersal potential.
– Medium (2) has either high reproductive or dispersal potential.
– High (3) has both high reproduction and dispersal potential.

4) Economic Impact: If Ophiomyia kwansonis were to become established in California it is not expected to lower crop yields.  It is likely to lower the value of daylily nursery stock by disfiguring plants with its presence.  The leafminer is not expected to disrupt any markets, change cultural practices, vector other organisms, injure animals, or interfere with water supplies.  Daylily leafminer receives a Low (1) in this category.

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

A. The pest could lower crop yield.
B. The pest could lower crop value (includes increasing crop production costs).
C. The pest could trigger the loss of markets (includes quarantines).
D. The pest could negatively change normal cultural practices.
E. The pest can vector, or is vectored, by another pestiferous organism.
F. The organism is injurious or poisonous to agriculturally important animals.
G. The organism can interfere with the delivery or supply of water for agricultural uses.

– Low (1) causes 0 or 1 of these impacts.
– Medium (2) causes 2 of these impacts.
– High (3) causes 3 or more of these impacts.

5) Environmental Impact: If daylily leafminer were to become established in California it is not expected to lower biodiversity, disrupt natural communities, or change ecosystem processes.  It is not likely to directly affect threatened or endangered species or disrupt critical habitats.  In Florida growers are advised to remove and destroy obviously mined leaves1.  No new chemical treatment programs are expected.  Daylily leafminer is expected to significantly impact daylilies which are common ornamental plants.  Ophiomyia kwansonis receives a Medium (2) in this category.

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

A. The pest could have a significant environmental impact such as lowering biodiversity, disrupting natural communities, or changing ecosystem processes.
B. The pest could directly affect threatened or endangered species.
C. The pest could impact threatened or endangered species by disrupting critical habitats.
D. The pest could trigger additional official or private treatment programs.
E. The pest significantly impacts cultural practices, home/urban gardening or ornamental plantings.

Score the pest for Environmental Impact. Score:

– Low (1) causes none of the above to occur.
– Medium (2) causes one of the above to occur.
– High (3) causes two or more of the above to occur.

Consequences of Introduction to California for Ophiomyia kwansonis (Daylily Leafminer):  Medium (10)

Add up the total score and include it here.

–Low = 5-8 points
–Medium = 9-12 points
–High = 13-15 points

6) Post Entry Distribution and Survey Information: Daylily leafminer has not been found in the environment of California and receives a Not established (0) in this category.

Evaluate the known distribution in California. Only official records identified by a taxonomic expert and supported by voucher specimens deposited in natural history collections should be considered. Pest incursions that have been eradicated, are under eradication, or have been delimited with no further detections should not be included.

–Not established (0) Pest never detected in California, or known only from incursions.
–Low (-1) Pest has a localized distribution in California, or is established in one suitable climate/host area (region).
–Medium (-2) Pest is widespread in California but not fully established in the endangered area, or pest established in two contiguous suitable climate/host areas.
–High (-3) Pest has fully established in the endangered area, or pest is reported in more than two contiguous or non-contiguous suitable climate/host areas.

Final Score:

The final score is the consequences of introduction score minus the post entry distribution and survey information score: Medium (10)

Uncertainty:

Eggs and young larvae of daylily leafminer are very difficult to detect in visual inspections.  Given the wide distribution of the fly in the eastern United States and rapidity of its spread it is possible some of the flies may have already entered California.

Conclusion and Rating Justification:

Ophiomyia kwansonis has not been found in California and is expected to have significant impacts on the nursery industry and ornamental plantings if it becomes established in the state.  A “B” rating is justified.

References:

1 Steck, Gary J. and Gaye L. Williams. 2013. Daylily Leafminer, Ophiomyia kwansonis Sasakawa (Diptera: Agromyzidae), new to North America, including Florida.  Pest Alert. Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, Division of Plant Industry.  DACS-P-01807. http://freshfromflorida.s3.amazonaws.com/ophiomyia-kwansonis.pdf

2 Bethke, James A. 2014. Insect Hot Topics: Daylily leafminers. UCNFA News. http://ucanr.edu/sites/UCNFAnews/Insect_Hot_Topics/Daylily_leafminers/

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

4 Williams, Gaye L. and Gary J. Steck. 2014.  Ophiomyia kwansonis Sasakawa (Diptera: Agromyzidae), the Daylily Leafminer, an Asian Species Recently Identified in the Continental United States.  Proceedings of the Entomological Society of Washington 116(4): 421-428.

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:  B

Posted by ls

Hemiptera, Insects, Mites & Earthworms

Paraleyrodes bondari Peracchi: Bondar’s Nesting Whitefly

California Pest Rating for
Paraleyrodes bondari Peracchi: Bondar’s Nesting Whitefly
Hemiptera: Aleyrodidae
Pest Rating:  A
PEST RATING PROFILE
Initiating Event:

On February 9, 2016 USDA announced that it had changed the status of Paraleyrodes bondari from actionable to non-actionable based on a recommendation from the National Plant Board1.  Stephen Brown subsequently requested a rating proposal for Paraleyrodes bondari.

History & Status:

Background:  Paraleyrodes bondari is a whitefly that feeds on the upper and lower leaf surfaces of a variety of plants2.  Infested plants develop a coating of sooty mold and strands of white wax2.  Known hosts include Annonaceae: sugar apple (Annona squamosa2); Arecaceae: coconut (Cocos nucifera2), Chamaedorea sp.2; Lauraceae: avocado (Persea americana2), til (Ocotea foetens2), canary laurel (Apollonias barbujana2); Meliaceae: Trichilia sp.2; Malvaceae: Chinese hibiscus (Hibiscus rosa-sinensis2); Moraceae: banyantree (Ficus benghalensis2), weeping fig (Ficus benjamina2), curtain fig (Ficus microcarpa2); Myrtaceae: Surinam cherry (Eugenia uniflora2), guava (Psidium guajava2); Rutaceae: orange (Citrus sinensis5), mandarin orange (Citrus reticulata5), lemon (Citrus limon5), Citrus spp.2  Paraleyrodes bondari may be transported long distances when infested plants or fresh plant parts are moved.

Worldwide Distribution: Paraleyrodes bondari is Neotropical in origin2 with a known range from Brazil to Honduras.  From there it has spread to Hawaii, Puerto Rico, Taiwan, Comoros, Mauritius, Reunion, and Maderia2.  It was first found in southern Florida by Stephen Brown in 20112 and by 2012 had spread to six counties3.

Official Control: All citrus whiteflies are considered quarantine pests by the State of Arizona.  Paraleyrodes bondari is not known to be under official control in any other states or nations.  However, Bermuda and Jordan both list all whiteflies as harmful organisms4.

California Distribution:  Paraleyrodes bondari has never been found in California.

California Interceptions:  Paraleyrodes bondari has never been intercepted by CDFA.  However, unidentified species of Paraleyrodes were intercepted 39 times from 2001 to 2015 on plants and fresh plant parts from Hawaii and Florida.

The risk Paraleyrodes bondari (Bondar’s Nesting Whitefly) would pose to California is evaluated below.

Consequences of Introduction: 

1) Climate/Host Interaction: Host plants of Paraleyrodes bondari are widespread in urban and rural residential areas of California and are important agricultural crops. The whitefly is likely to encounter suitable hosts through much of the state.  The present distribution of Paraleyrodes bondari corresponds with tropical climates.  It is likely that the whitefly will be limited to warmer parts of coastal and southern California.  Paraleyrodes bondari receives a Medium (2) in this category.

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

– Low (1) Not likely to establish in California; or likely to establish in very limited areas.

– Medium (2) may be able to establish in a larger but limited part of California.

– High (3) likely to establish a widespread distribution in California.

2) Known Pest Host Range: Paraleyrodes bondari feeds on at least eighteen species of plants in eight families including important crops and ornamentals.  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 may be transported long distances by wind or when infested plants or fresh plant parts are moved.  Paraleyrodes bondari 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: Paraleyrodes bondari has not been documented reducing any crop yields.  It may lower the value of nursery stock by disfiguring plants with its presence and sooty mold.  Arizona considers all citrus whiteflies to be quarantine pests and Paraleyrodes bondari has not been found in that state.  Its presence in California could disrupt markets.  Bondar’s nesting whitefly is not expected to change cultural practices, vector other organisms, injure animals, or disrupt water supplies.  Paraleyrodes bondari receives a Medium (2) in this category.

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

A. The pest could lower crop yield.
B. The pest could lower crop value (includes increasing crop production costs).
C. The pest could trigger the loss of markets (includes quarantines).
D. The pest could negatively change normal cultural practices.
E. The pest can vector, or is vectored, by another pestiferous organism.
F. The organism is injurious or poisonous to agriculturally important animals.
G. The organism can interfere with the delivery or supply of water for agricultural uses.

– Low (1) causes 0 or 1 of these impacts.
– Medium (2) causes 2 of these impacts.
– High (3) causes 3 or more of these impacts.

5) Environmental Impact: If Paraleyrodes bondari were to establish in California it 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.  It may trigger new treatment programs in groves, the nursery industry, and by residents who find infested plants unsightly.  Hosts of the whitefly are popular as both ornamentals and in home/urban gardens and may be significantly affected.  Paraleyrodes bondari 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 Paraleyrodes bondari (Bondar’s Nesting 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: Paraleyrodes bondari 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:

The whitefly has not been documented to reduce crop yields.  However, populations in infested areas are suppressed by Encarsia variegata (Aphelinidae)2.  It is possible that this whitefly could be more damaging in California if it were to establish without this parasitoid.

Conclusion and Rating Justification:

Paraleyrodes bondari 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:

1 Collins, Joe 2015.  Letter from National Plant Board to Ricardo Valdez.  https://www.aphis.usda.gov/plant_health/plant_pest_info/frsmp/downloads/non-reg-pests/pnr-12-21-15.pdf

2 Stocks, Ian C. 2012. Bondar’s Nesting Whitefly, Paraleyrodes bondari, a whitefly (Hemiptera: Aleyrodidae) New to Florida Attacking Ficus and Other Hosts.  Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services Pest Alert DACS-P-01801.  http://www.fortlauderdale.gov/Home/ShowDocument?id=4794

3 Distribution of Bondar’s Nesting Whitefly, Paraleyrodes bondari. May 25, 2012.  http://entomology.ifas.ufl.edu/hodges/white_website/maps/Whitefly_Bondars_Nesting_Map_8X11.pdf

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

5 Martin, J.H. 1996. Neotropical whiteflies of the subfamily Aleurodicinae established in the western Palearctic (Homoptera: Aleyrodidae). Journal of Natural History 30: 1849-1859. http://www.eurekamag.com/002/002903436.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

Hymenoptera, Insects, Mites & Earthworms

Quadrastichus erythrinae Kim | Erythrina gall wasp

California Pest Rating for
Quadrastichus erythrinae Kim: Erythrina gall wasp
(Hymenoptera: Eulophidae)
Pest Rating: B
PEST RATING PROFILE
Initiating Event:

In April 2015 the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) released a Deregulation Evaluation of Established Pests (DEEP) report that proposed to change the status of Quadrastichus erythrinae to non-actionable.  A pest rating proposal is required to determine future direction on this pest in California.

History & Status:

Background:  Quadrastichus erythrinae is an emerging pest gall wasp that disfigures the leaves and young shoots of more than 60 species of coral trees (Erythrinia spp.)1,2.  It may be transported long distances when infested plants or plant parts such as fallen leaves are moved1.  Female wasps insert eggs inside young leaves and stem tissue1.  As larvae develop, they induce galls which cause leaves to curl and shoots to become swollen1.  Larvae pupate inside leaves and stems and adults chew their way out as they emerge1.  Heavy infestations can cause defoliation and death of trees1.  Quadrastichus erythrinae was first found in Hawaii in 2005 and within 2 years caused 95% mortality of Erythrina trees1.

Worldwide Distribution: Quadrastichus erythrinae is believed to be native to Africa1.  From there it has spread through much of Asia and the Pacific islands including Hawaii1.  In the Americas it is established in Brazil, Guadeloupe, Martinique, and Florida1.

Official Control: Quadrastichus erythrinae is listed as a harmful organism by China, but is not known to be under official control in any other states or nations3.

California Distribution:  Quadrastichus erythrinae has never been found in the environment of California.

California Interceptions:  Quadrastichus erythrinae has never been intercepted in California.

The risk Quadrastichus erythrinae (Erythrina gall wasp) would pose to California is evaluated below.

Consequences of Introduction: 

1) Climate/Host Interaction: The current distribution of Quadrastichus erythrinae corresponds to USDA Plant Hardiness Zones 10-13.  This indicates that the pest is likely to be limited to the warmest parts of southern California.  Quadrastichus erythrinae receives a Low (1) 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: Quadrastichus erythrinae is only known to feed on coral trees in the genus Erythrina.  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: Quadrastichus erythrinae has a high reproductive rate.  Each female carries an average of 320 eggs and can complete a life cycle in 20 days1.  These gall wasps may be transported long distances when infested plants or plant parts are moved and disperse locally by flying, wind, or by hitchhiking on clothing, animals, or equipment1.  Quadrastichus erythrinae 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 Quadrastichus erythrinae were to establish in California it is not expected to lower any crop yields.  It may reduce the value of Erythrina nursery stock and increase production costs of those trees.  The gall wasp is not expected to disrupt any markets, change cultural practices, vector other organisms, injure animals, or interfere with water supplies.  Quadrastichus erythrinae 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: Quadrastichus erythrinae is not expected to lower biodiversity, disrupt natural communities, or change ecosystem practices.  It is not likely to directly affect threatened or endangered species or disrupt critical habitats.  It may trigger additional treatment programs in the nursery industry and by residents who wish to save their coral trees.  Coral trees are grown as ornamentals in southern California and may be extirpated by Quadrastichus erythrinae.  Erythrina gall wasp 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 Quadrastichus erythrinae (Erythrina gall wasp):  Medium (9)

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: Quadrastichus erythrinae 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: Medium (9)

Uncertainty:  

There have not been any surveys for Quadrastichus erythrinae in California.

Conclusion and Rating Justification:

Quadrastichus erythrinae has never been found in California.  However, if it were to establish in the state its effects are likely to be limited to coral trees in the nursery industry and southern California landscape.  A “B” rating is justified.

References:

1 CABI Invasive Species Compendium.  Datasheet on Quadrastichus erythrinae (Erythrina gall wasp).  http://www.cabi.org/isc/datasheet/46220

2 Baez, Ignacio. DEEP Report Quadrastichus erythrinae Kim: Erythrina gall wasp. Deregulation Evaluation of Established Pests (DEEP). Plant Epidemiology and Risk Analysis Lab. Center for Plant Health Science and Technology.

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: B

Posted by ls

Hemiptera, Insects, Mites & Earthworms

Radionaspis indica (Marlatt) | Mango Scale

California Pest Rating for
Radionaspis indica (Marlatt): Mango Scale
Hemiptera:  Diaspididae
Pest Rating:  B
PEST RATING PROFILE
Initiating Event:

Since 2005 Radionaspis indica has been regularly intercepted on mango fruit by CDFA’s border stations and dog teams.  This scale insect presently has a temporary rating of “Q”.  A pest rating proposal is needed to establish a permanent pest rating.

History & Status:

Background:  Radionaspis indica is a monophagous scale insect that feeds on the trunk, branches, and buds of mango trees (Mangifera indica (Anacardiaceae)).  Severe infestations can cause cracking of bark, exudation of sap, and decline of branches2.  Radionaspis indica may rapidly disperse long distances in the trade of infested mango fruit or nursery stock.

Worldwide Distribution: Radionaspis indica may be native to India and is also found in Indonesia, the Federated States of Micronesia, Palau, Cape Verde, Senegal, Cuba, the British Virgin Islands, the Dominican Republic, Jamaica, and Panama3.  In the United States the scale is found in Hawaii, Florida, and Puerto Rico3.  Regular interceptions of the scale on mangos from Mexico suggest that it is established in that country.

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

California Distribution:  Radionaspis indica has never been found in the environment of California.

California Interceptions:  Between January 1, 2005 and December 31, 2015 Radionaspis indica was intercepted 69 times on mango fruit by CDFA’s border stations and dog teams.  It was also intercepted once on papaya.

The risk Radionaspis indica (mango scale) would pose to California is evaluated below.

Consequences of Introduction: 

1) Climate/Host Interaction: Mango trees require warm, dry weather to set fruit. In California the best locations are away from immediate marine influences in the deserts, foothills, and the warmest cove locations of the California Central Valley4,5, 6.  Mango trees are also sometimes grown as ornamental plants in urban environments and are present in the nursery industry.  Radionaspis indica is expected to be able to establish in all of these environments.  It receives a Medium(2) in this category.

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

– Low (1) Not likely to establish in California; or likely to establish in very limited areas.

– Medium (2) may be able to establish in a larger but limited part of California.

– High (3) likely to establish a widespread distribution in California.

2) Known Pest Host Range: Radionaspis indica only feeds on mango and receives a Low(1) in this category.

Evaluate the host range of the pest. Score:

– Low (1) has a very limited host range.

– Medium (2) has a moderate host range.

– High (3) has a wide host range.

3) Pest Dispersal Potential: Armored scales have high reproductive potential.  Mango fruit is not considered to be a good pathway for dispersal of Radionaspis indica due the limited mobility of female armored scales and crawlers and the species’ limited host range.  However, the scales have high dispersal potential because they are able to disperse long distances rapidly on nursery stock and are able to disperse to any nearby trees by crawling, by wind, or by hitchhiking on clothing, equipment, or other animals.  Radionaspis indica receives a High(3) in this category.

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

– Low (1) does not have high reproductive or dispersal potential.

– Medium (2) has either high reproductive or dispersal potential.

– High (3) has both high reproduction and dispersal potential.

4) Economic Impact: California growers produce between 250,000 and 4,000,000 pounds of mango annually6.  This is a high value commodity produced for local sales at specialty markets and demand is increasing6.  California grown mangos are generally produced organically5.  If Radionaspis indica were to enter California and become established in groves it could potentially reduce yields of this crop if heavy infestations cause branch dieback2.  Furthermore, the scale has potential to both lower crop value by disfiguring fruit and nursery stock with its presence and increase production costs by triggering new chemical treatments.  Radionaspis indica 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: Radionaspis indica is not expected to lower biodiversity, disrupt natural communities, or change ecosystem processes.  The scale is not expected to feed on any endangered or threatened species or disrupt critical habitats.  It is possible that its entry could trigger new treatment programs in orchards and nurseries and by residents who find infested trees unsightly.  The scale is not expected significantly impact cultural practices, home/urban gardening, or ornamental plantings.  Radionaspis indica receives a Medium(2) in this category.

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

A.  The pest could have a significant environmental impact such as lowering biodiversity, disrupting natural communities, or changing ecosystem processes.

B.  The pest could directly affect threatened or endangered species.

C.  The pest could impact threatened or endangered species by disrupting critical habitats.

D.  The pest could trigger additional official or private treatment programs.

E.  The pest significantly impacts cultural practices, home/urban gardening or ornamental plantings.

Score the pest for Environmental Impact. Score:

– Low (1) causes none of the above to occur.

– Medium (2) causes one of the above to occur.

– High (3) causes two or more of the above to occur.

Consequences of Introduction to California for Radionaspis indica (mango scale): Medium(10).

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: Radionaspis indica 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:  Medium(10)

Uncertainty:

It is possible that sometimes the presence of Radionaspis indica on fruit is indicative of home-grown mangos that have not been produced under commercial phytosanitary safeguards.  Any failure to take action on Radionaspis indica infested fruit may increase the risk of introducing exotic fruit flies and other more damaging pests into California.

Conclusion and Rating Justification:

The impacts of the entry of Radionaspis indica into California are expected to be limited to mango groves, nurseries, and scattered ornamental plantings.  Nevertheless, this scale insect may have significant economic and environmental impacts to this growing industry.  A “B” rating is justified.

References:

1 Litz, Richard E.  2009.  The Mango: Botany, Production, and Uses.  CABI.  680pp.  http://books.google.com/books?id=oloEhPYqE8QC&dq=Radionaspis+indica&source=gbs_navlinks_s

2 Peña, Jorge E.  1994.  Update on status of pests of tropical fruit crops in south Florida.  Proc. Fla. State Hort. Soc. 107: 340-342.  http://fshs.org/proceedings-o/1994-vol-107/340-342%20%28PENA%29.pdf

3 Ben-Dov, Y. (2014) ScaleNet, Radionaspis indica. Accessible online at: http://www.sel.barc.usda.gov/catalogs/diaspidi/Radionaspisindica.htm

4 Grown in California website.  Mango fruit facts page.  http://www.grownincalifornia.com/fruit-facts/mango-facts.html

5 Marks, Michael. 2013.  Mango orchards in California?  San Jose Mercury News.  http://www.mercurynews.com/food-wine/ci_24089949/mango-orchards-california

6 Karp, David.  2014.  Mango madness.  Sunset.  http://www.sunset.com/travel/california/mango-madness

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:  B

Posted by ls

Hemiptera, Insects, Mites & Earthworms

Acanthococcus lagerstroemiae (Kuwana) | Crapemyrtle Scale

California Pest Rating for
Acanthococcus lagerstroemiae (Kuwana): Crapemyrtle Scale
Synonym: Eriococcus lagerstroemiae
Hemiptera: Eriococcidae
Pest Rating:  A
PEST RATING PROFILE
Initiating Event:

In July 2015 the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) inquired about California’s position on deregulating Eriococcus lagerstroemiae (Acanthococcus lagerstroemiae).  A pest rating proposal is required to determine a permanent pest rating.

History & Status:

Background:  Acanthococcus lagerstroemiae is a scale insect that feeds on the branches, twigs, trunk, stems, and leaves of its host-plants1.  It also feeds on the fruit of persimmon1.  Heavy infestations of the scale are not known to be fatal to trees but they do have significant aesthetic impacts that often lead to host removal1.  Layers of the scale on plants lead to extensive honeydew deposits, growth of sooty mold, dieback, decline, and decrease in the number and size of flowers1.   The sooty mold turns trunks, leaves, and twigs charcoal black1.  Known hosts of the scale include: Buxaceae: Korean boxwood (Buxus microphylla koreana2); Combretaceae: axlewood (Anogeiussus latifolia2), Anogeiussus sp.2; Ebenaceae: persimmon (Diospyros kaki2); Euphobiaceae: food wrapper plant (Mallotus japonicas2), needlebush (Glochidion puberum2); Fabaceae: Dalbergia sp.2, soybean (Glycine max2); Lythraceae: crapemyrtle (Lagerstroemia indica2); Japanese crapemyrtle (Lagerstroemia japonica2), giant crapemyrtle (Lagerstsoemia flosreginae2); Moraceae: fig (Ficus carica2); Myrtaceae: Myrtus sp.2; Oleaceae: border privet (Ligustrum obtusifolium2); Punicaceae: pomegranate (Punica granatum2); Rosaceae: paradise apple (Malus pumila2); Chinese quince (Pseudocydonia sp.1); Rubus sp.; Ulmaceae: Chinese hackberry (Celtis sinensis). The primary hosts are considered to be crapemyrtle, persimmon, Chinese quince, and pomegranate1.  Acanthococcus lagerstroemiae may be transported long distances when infested plants or fresh plant parts are moved.

Worldwide Distribution: Acanthococcus lagerstroemiae is native to China, India, Japan, South Korea, and possibly Mongolia1.  It was found in Texas in 2004.  Since then it has spread throughout eastern Texas and to four counties in Arkansas, seven in Louisiana, five in Oklahoma, one in Tennessee, one in Virginia, and one in Mississippi1.

Official Control: Acanthococcus lagerstroemiae is not known to be under official control in any other states or nations3.  However, the USDA proposal would keep the scale actionable in Hawaii1.

California Distribution:  Acanthococcus lagerstroemiae has never been found in California.

California Interceptions:  Acanthococcus lagerstroemiae has never been intercepted by CDFA.

The risk Acanthococcus lagerstroemiae (Crapemyrtle scale) would pose to California is evaluated below.

Consequences of Introduction: 

1) Climate/Host Interaction: Acanthococcus lagerstroemiae is expected to establish throughout plant hardiness zones 6-101. This corresponds to almost all of California.  Host plants of the scale are grown throughout the state as ornamentals and crops.  Crapemyrtle scale is likely to establish a widespread distribution in California and receives a High (3) in this category.

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

– Low (1) Not likely to establish in California; or likely to establish in very limited areas.

– Medium (2) may be able to establish in a larger but limited part of California.

– High (3) likely to establish a widespread distribution in California.

2) Known Pest Host Range: Acanthococcus lagerstroemiae is known to feed on a variety of plants in twelve families, many of which are widely cultivated in California.  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: Acanthococcus lagerstroemiae has 2-4 generations per year and each adult female lays an average of 220 eggs1.  The scales may disperse long distances when infested plants or fresh plant parts are moved.  They may also be spread by wind or by hitchhiking on plants, animals, or equipment.  Crapemyrtle 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: In Asia Acanthococcus lagerstroemiae is the major pest of crapemyrtle trees, and is also a serious pest of pomegranate and persimmon trees.  If this scale insect were to establish in California it is expected to lower yields in pomegranate and persimmon groves.  It is also likely to lower the value of persimmon fruit and all host nursery stock.  Since the USDA has proposed to keep crapemyrtle scale actionable in Hawaii, this scale is also likely to disrupt markets for California fruit and nursery stock if it were to establish in the state.  Crapemyrtle scale is not expected to change cultural practices, vector other organisms, injure animals, or interfere with water supplies.  Acanthococcus lagerstroemiae receives a High (3) in this category.

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

A.  The pest could lower crop yield.

B.  The pest could lower crop value (includes increasing crop production costs).

C.  The pest could trigger the loss of markets (includes quarantines).

D.  The pest could negatively change normal cultural practices.

E.  The pest can vector, or is vectored, by another pestiferous organism.

F.  The organism is injurious or poisonous to agriculturally important animals.

G.  The organism can interfere with the delivery or supply of water for agricultural uses.

– Low (1) causes 0 or 1 of these impacts.

– Medium (2) causes 2 of these impacts.

– High (3) causes 3 or more of these impacts.

5) Environmental Impact: If Acanthococcus lagerstroemiae were to establish in California it is not likely 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 is very likely to trigger new treatment programs in orchards and by residents who find infested plants unsightly.  Crapemyrtle, pomegranate, and persimmon trees are common ornamentals in California and are likely to be significantly affected by this pest.  Many of the host trees have been removed from areas in Texas where the scale has established1.  Crapemyrtle scale 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 Acanthococcus lagerstroemiae (Crapemyrtle 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: Acanthococcus lagerstroemiae has not been found in California.  The severe aesthetic impacts attributed to infestations of the scale and ease of detection since it is the only bark scale known to occur on crapemyrtle1 make it unlikely that this pest is present anywhere in California.  Crapemyrtle scale 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 this scale could colonize additional host plants in California.

Conclusion and Rating Justification:

Acanthococcus lagerstroemiae has not been found in California and it is expected to have significant economic and environmental impacts if it were to establish in the state.  An “A” rating is justified.

References:

1 Miller, Leah. 2015. NPAG Report Eriococcus lagerstroemiae Kuwana: crapemyrtle scale.  New Pest Advisory Group (NPAG).

2 SEL Catalogue Query Results/ScaleNet: Acanthococcus lagerstroemiae (Kuwana).  http://www.sel.barc.usda.gov/catalogs/eriococc/Acanthococcuslagerstroemiae.htm

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

Macrohomotoma gladiata (Kuwayama) | Curtain Fig Psyllid

California Pest Rating for
Macrohomotoma gladiata (Kuwayama): Curtain Fig Psyllid
Hemiptera: Psyllidae
Pest Rating: B
PEST RATING PROFILE
Initiating Event:

On August 28, 2015 Dr. Alessandra Rung identified psyllids collected in a nursery in Orange County as Macrohomotoma cf. gladiata.  A pest rating proposal is required to assign a permanent pest rating.

History & Status:

Background:  Macrohomotoma gladiata is a psyllid that feeds on the new shoots of several varieties of ornamental Ficus trees1.  Adult psyllids lay eggs on new leaves of twigs and withered bracts1.  As the nymphs feed shoots become deformed, stop developing, and eventually die1.  Leaves become covered in white waxy secretions which facilitate the development of sooty-mold2.  The main hosts of the psyllid are curtain fig (Ficus microcarpa) and Cuban-laurel (Ficus retusa)1.  There are also questionable records from Indian banyan (Ficus benghalensis) and rusty-leaf fig (Ficus microphylla)1.

Worldwide Distribution: Macrohomotoma gladiata is native to China, Taiwan, and Japan where it is not considered to be a pest1.  It was first found in Europe in the Balearic Islands in 2009 where it emerged as a pest and has since spread to mainland Spain (2010) and Italy (2011)1.  It has not previously been found in North or South America.

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

California Distribution:  Macrohomotoma gladiata has been found at several residential and commercial properties in Anaheim, Orange County feeding on curtain fig (Ficus microcarpa).

California Interceptions:  Macrohomotoma gladiata has been found in four nurseries in Orange County feeding on Ficus microcarpa.

The risk Macrohomotoma gladiata (curtain fig 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. Macrohomotoma gladiata 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: Macrohomotoma gladiata is only known to feed on several varieties of Ficus trees and receives a Low (1) in this category.

Evaluate the host range of the pest. Score:

– Low (1) has a very limited host range.

– Medium (2) has a moderate host range.

– High (3) has a wide host range.

3) Pest Dispersal Potential: 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.  Macrohomotoma gladiata 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.  If Macrohomotoma gladiata were to establish in the environment of California it is likely to lower nursery yields of these plants and increase production costs.  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.  Macrohomotoma gladiata receives a High (3) in this category.

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

A.  The pest could lower crop yield.

B.  The pest could lower crop value (includes increasing crop production costs).

C.  The pest could trigger the loss of markets (includes quarantines).

D.  The pest could negatively change normal cultural practices.

E.  The pest can vector, or is vectored, by another pestiferous organism.

F.  The organism is injurious or poisonous to agriculturally important animals.

G.  The organism can interfere with the delivery or supply of water for agricultural uses.

– Low (1) causes 0 or 1 of these impacts.

– Medium (2) causes 2 of these impacts.

– High (3) causes 3 or more of these impacts.

5) Environmental Impact: If Macrohomotoma gladiata were to establish in the environment of 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.  Its presence is likely to trigger new chemical treatments in the nursery industry and by residents who find infested plants unsightly.  Ficus microcarpa trees are widely grown as ornamentals in California and are likely to be significantly impacted by this pest.  Macrohomotoma gladiata 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 Macrohomotoma gladiata (Curtain Fig Psyllid):  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: Macrohomotoma gladiata has only been found in the environment of Orange County and receives a Low (-1) in this category.

Evaluate the known distribution in California. Only official records identified by a taxonomic expert and supported by voucher specimens deposited in natural history collections should be considered. Pest incursions that have been eradicated, are under eradication, or have been delimited with no further detections should not be included.

–Not established (0) Pest never detected in California, or known only from incursions.

–Low (-1) Pest has a localized distribution in California, or is established in one suitable climate/host area (region).

–Medium (-2) Pest is widespread in California but not fully established in the endangered area, or pest established in two contiguous suitable climate/host areas.

–High (-3) Pest has fully established in the endangered area, or pest is reported in more than two contiguous or non-contiguous suitable climate/host areas.

Final Score:

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

Uncertainty:

There have not been any recent surveys for this psyllid in 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), and Cuban-laurel thrips (Gynaikothrips uzeli).  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 Macrohomotoma gladiata.  Alternatively, the psyllid might have a larger host range in California than has been documented elsewhere.

Conclusion and Rating Justification:

Macrohomotoma gladiata has been found in the environment of Orange County and is likely to have significant economic and environmental impacts as it expands its range in the state.  A “B”-rating in justified.

References:

1 Pedata, Paolo Alfonso, Daniel Burckhardt, and Donato Mancini. 2012. Severe infestations of the jumping plant-louse Macrohomotoma gladiata, a new species for Italy in urban Ficus plantations.  Bulletin of Insectology 65(1): 95-98. http://www.bulletinofinsectology.org/pdfarticles/vol65-2012-095-098pedata.pdf

2 Mifsud, D. and F. Porcelli. 2012. The psyllid Macrohomotoma gladiata Kuwayama, 1908 (Hemiptera: Psylloidea: Homotomidae): a Ficus pest recently introduced in the EPPO region.  EPPO Bulletin 42(1): 161-164. http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/j.1365-2338.2012.02544.x/abstract

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: B

Posted by ls