An analysis of pest risk from an Asian longhorn beetle (Anoplophora glabripennis) to hardwood trees in the European community

The risk posed by the wood-boring pest, Anoplophora glabripennis, to hardwood tree species in the EC was assessed using an internationally developed pest risk assessment scheme. The assessment reviewed information concerning the current distribution, biology and economic impact of A. glabripennis in Asia and North America together with recent European interceptions. Hosts grow across much of Europe and, using the computer program CLIMEX, southern regions of Europe were highlighted as areas where climate is most suitable for the pest's establishment. There is a significant risk that A. glabripennis could enter, establish and cause damage to several important forest, fruit, and amenity tree species in the EC. This risk analysis contributed to the decision to add A. glabripennis to the list of quarantine pests whose introduction and spread within all EC Member States is banned. (C) 2002 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.