Situation of Anoplophora chinensis in the United Kingdom
Between 2005 and 2007, single adult specimens of Anoplophora chinensis (Coleoptera: Cerambycidae – EPPO A2 List) have been found at a few locations in the United Kingdom but have not lead to the establishment of the pest. However in 2005, a rather large number of beetles were found in a nursery on a consignment of young Acer trees imported from China (see EPPO RS 2006/098). Although the trees and the emerging beetles were under tunnels, there was the risk that some beetles may have escaped. Surveillance, since the interception, in trees surrounding the nursery has not revealed an outbreak. However, given that larvae may not emerge for 2 or 3 years, and that it is very difficult to inspect large trees, the possible presence of A. chinensis cannot be ruled out at this stage. The NPPO of the United Kingdom considers that A. chinensis has probably been eradicated but that more surveys are still necessary to confirm this.
The pest status of Anoplophora chinensis in the United Kingdom is officially declared as follows: Believed absent after eradication of an earlier interception, surveillance continuing.
Sources
NPPO of the United Kingdom (2008-01).