First report of Pochazia shantungensis in the Netherlands
The NPPO of the Netherlands recently informed the EPPO Secretariat of the first finding of Pochazia shantungensis (Hemiptera: Ricaniidae - EPPO Alert List) on its territory. In July 2023, two nymphs were captured by the owner of a garden located in the municipality of Hendrik-Ido-Ambacht and then collected by a phytosanitary inspector. More specimens (nymphs and exuviae) were collected from Buddleia davidii, Trachelospermum jasminoides and Viburnum sp. plants. Nymphs were reared in the laboratory and the adults were identified as Pochazia shantungensis.
The origin of this finding is unknown, but probably linked to the recent purchase of one (or more) of the three woody plants (B. davidii, T. jasminoides and Viburnum sp.). These plants had been planted in the garden during the previous winter/spring. Tracing-back studies and monitoring of the garden will be carried out. No particular damage to plants was observed. Eradication is difficult in the absence of any suitable plant protection products for use in private gardens. It is also noted that the potential impact of this pest in Northern European countries is expected to be limited.
The pest status of Pochazia shantungensis in the Netherlands is officially declared as: Transient, non actionable. Few specimens at one location, monitoring ongoing.
Sources
NPPO of the Netherlands (2023-07).