Asian Gypsy Moth Archives

Asian Gypsy Moth

The UK P&I Club have received the following update from local correspondents, PICC, regarding the high risk season for Asian Gypsy Moth (AGM).

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NAPPO Regional Standards for Phytosanitary Measures (RSPM 33) states that all ships which have called an infested area during the period in which AGM is likely to contaminate them, especially from June to September, should be inspected and get an Inspection Certificate of Freedom from AGM before entering the NAPPO region (USA, Canada, Mexico).The Vessel without AGM inspection and certificate may be refused entry to the NAPPO region, redirected to other destinations and may be subject to penalties.

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A reminder that during this time it can be expected that Port State inspectors increase their efforts to prevent the spread of this invasive species, especially on the North American Continent.

The Club would like to highlight the upcoming high risk season (1 March ~ 15 October) for Asian Gypsy Moth (AGM). During this time it can be expected that Port State inspectors increase their efforts to prevent the spread this invasive species, especially on the North American Continent. The Club would like to remind Members of previously issued advice as well as newly released documents and guidance.

Asian Gypsy Moth

Asian Gypsy Moth - Update

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Asian Gypsy Moth – Introduction

The Asian Gypsy Moth (AGM) is a highly destructive forest pest that feeds on both deciduous and coniferous trees.

The voracious appetite of AGM larvae (caterpillars) coupled with the ability of the female moth to travel up to 21 nautical miles can cause widespread defoliation leaving trees weakened and susceptible to disease and other pests.

AGM is found in the Far East with a high risk of infestation of vessels with AGM eggs in Korea, Northern China (North of

Shanghai; North of latitude 31 ̊15’N), and in particular in the Russian Far East and Japan during the flight season of the female moth.

Due to the destructive nature of the AGM, the following countries, where the pest is not indigenous, have procedures

in place to prevent AGM entering on vessels and becoming established:

•Australia

•Canada

•Chile

•New Zealand

•United States

Inspections

The inspection of vessels for the presence of egg masses, their removal and disposal are the principal tools in preventing AGM

becoming established in new regions. Some destination countries require vessels that have called in high risk countries

during the flight season to be inspected for the presence of AGM by a nominated authority immediately prior to departure.

If no signs of AGM infestation are found, the nominated authority will issue the vessel with certification stating that it is free of AGM; depending on the issuing authority the certificate may be a “Certificate of Inspection of Freedom from the Asian Gypsy Moth” or a “Phytosanitary Certificate”. If multiple ports in the same country or a number of ports in different countries within the high risk area are visited, the official inspection

should be undertaken immediately prior to departure from the last port in the high risk area.