First report of Agrilus planipennis in Hungary
The NPPO of Hungary recently informed the EPPO Secretariat of the first report of the emerald ash borer Agrilus planipennis (Coleoptera: Buprestidae – EPPO A2 List) on its territory. This is the first report of this pest in the European Union. In the EPPO region, A. planipennis was first reported in the European part of the Russian Federation in 2007 (EPPO RS 2007/067), in Ukraine in 2019 (RS 2019/202), and in Belarus in 2025 (RS 2025/208).
In Hungary, one specimen was caught in a pheromone trap operated by the Sopron University – Forest Research Institute (ERTI) in Beregsurány (region of Észak-Alföld, eastern Hungary) on 2026-06-09. The identification of the pest was carried out using a molecular (PCR-based) test by the National Reference Laboratory.
Surveillance was intensified in the affected area, including the deployment of supplementary traps and targeted surveys of host plants (Fraxinus spp.). Preliminary field observations on ash trees in the vicinity of the trap detected symptoms consistent with infestation by A. planipennis. Further delimitation surveys are conducted. A demarcated area has been established around the detection site and extends to the border with Ukraine, with part of the buffer and survey zone reaching into adjacent Ukrainian territory. Coordination is being implemented with the Ukrainian NPPO. The national contingency plan for A. planipennis implemented is being in Hungary.
The pest status of Agrilus planipennis in Hungary is officially declared as: Transient, actionable, under surveillance.
Sources
NPPO of Hungary (2026-06).