Biological control can represent a viable option in certain contexts to combat invasive alien species. Despite of successful experiences, especially in plant protection against insects, concerns arise due to the potential risk posed by the introduced agents to the environment, particularly when imported from other continents.
EPPO has enriched its sets of standards by means of publishing new or revised standards in the December issue of the EPPO Bulletin (follow the links to the Wiley-Blackwell website).
The EPPO Council reiterates that “Intercontinental movement of soil associated with plants for planting is high risk for plant health”, with possible introduction of pests.
Two new EPPO Standards on Xylella fastidiosa have been published in the EPPO Bulletin and are freely available from the Internet (via the Wiley-Blackwell website of the EPPO Bulletin, early view).
EASIN is establishing collaborations with organizations working on biodiversity and Alien Species, aiming at enriching the quality of data and distribution maps retrievable via the information system.