Pest survey card on Polygraphus proximus

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Published on: Mon, 03 Feb 2020

This pest survey card was prepared in the context of the EFSA mandate on plant pest surveillance (M‐2017‐0137) at the request of the European Commission. Its purpose is to assist the Member States in preparing their survey activities for Polygraphus proximusBlandford (Coleoptera: Scolytidae) using a statistically sound and risk‐based pest survey approach. Polygraphus proximus is a quarantine species in the EU, which has been introduced from east Asia into both Siberia and central European Russia. The species is a vector for pathogenic fungi that kills fir trees and is a threat to fir stands and other conifers in Europe. In the areas of recent introduction this insect pest species has had an impact of unprecedented severity on Abies forest stands. Detection surveys should combine visual inspection of primary host plants for the presence of symptoms of bark beetle infestation in Abiesspp. However, other species of conifer should not be neglected in detection surveys. Forest stands, woodlands or areas of trees with firs, spruce or other conifers near wood storage facilities, sawmills, or transport hubs (ports, train stations) with frequent passage of imported wood should initially be targeted.