Risk analysis of quarantine and alert organisms on plants

Main research question/goal

ILVO supports Belgian policy regarding protection of our plant production sector and green environment by collecting scientific data on specific harmful organisms and integrating these into Pest Risk Analysis (PRA) dossiers. ILVO also participates in writing PRAs for the EU. The EU can also require certain measures to be taken against specific harmful organisms. A PRA contains all of the internationally available information as well as data gained through ILVO expertise. This provides a reliable and up-to-date estimate of potential negative impact of the organism and all available control measures.

Research approach

A PRA is developed for a specific region and according to a defined standard (EPPO or EFSA standard). Currently, ILVO experts are involved in PRA writing for Xanthomonas fragariae (EU-PRA) en Puccinia horiana (EU-PRA, EFSA initiative). For each PRA the most recent information is gathered on diagnostics, detection, diversity, biology and epidemiology, pathways for introduction and spread, susceptibility of our cultivated and natural plant stands, and available strategies for eradication or control. During this work, knowledge gaps are also identified. If opportune, the experts can also formulate some advice for the government on a phytosanitary policy regarding the target organism.

Relevance/Valorisation

A PRA is an indispensable tool for the government to develop a successful phytosanitary policy (controls and measures), and where needed, to impose trade barriers in order to protect our economically important plant sector and our green environment. Because of the importance of quarantine diseases and pests for Flanders and Belgium, ILVO is very active in all relevant networks concerning plant health research and database development.