Quarantine pests detected in Dutch ornamental plants: NVWA takes action
New findings of quarantine thrips species in Dutch ornamental plants threaten horticulture exports. The NVWA has imposed strict measures to prevent spread, urging businesses to check imports from high-risk countries like Italy and China.
| Key Data Point | Details |
|---|---|
| Pests Detected | Scirtothrips dorsalis, Scirtothrips aurantii |
| Affected Plants | Choisya ternata, Nandina domestica, Grevillea poorinda, Rosa, Solidago |
| Source of Infestation | Italy (3 companies), unknown (1 company) |
| High-Risk Countries | China, Italy, Portugal, Spain |
| Measures Imposed | Quarantine, mandatory treatment, destruction of infested material |
| NVWA’s Role | Export/import inspections, tracing investigations, monitoring |
| Impact on Sector | Potential trade disruptions, heightened vigilance required |
The Netherlands Food and Consumer Product Safety Authority (NVWA) oversees plant health and biosecurity, enforcing EU quarantine regulations to prevent the spread of harmful pests. Its inspections and measures aim to protect the horticulture sector, a key economic driver for the Netherlands.
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Read the full translated article below
NVWA reports new findings of Scirtothrips in ornamental plants
The Netherlands Food and Consumer Product Safety Authority (NVWA) has recently confirmed multiple new findings of the thrips species Scirtothrips dorsalis and Scirtothrips aurantii on ornamental plants. These insects have a quarantine status within the European Union (EU). The findings were made during export inspections. The NVWA has imposed measures at the companies involved and is calling on the sector to remain vigilant against possible introduction of these insects.
New findings
In recent weeks, Scirtothrips dorsalis was detected on Choisya ternata and Nandina domestica, and S. aurantii on Grevillea poorinda during export inspections. Tracing investigations at the companies also revealed the presence of these Scirtothrips species on many other plant species. Additionally, plants from a fourth company were found to be infested through the tracing investigation. Research into the source indicates that infested plants at three companies originated from Italy. At one company, the source has not yet been determined.
Scirtothrips dorsalis was also detected during import inspections last month on Rosa from India and Solidago from Kenya. In 2025, there were also multiple interceptions of this organism on fruit and vegetables from various African and Asian countries. View an overview of interceptions on the European Commission website.
Measures in case of infestation
When S. dorsalis or S. aurantii is detected, the Netherlands is required, due to their EU quarantine status, to take measures to control these organisms and prevent further spread.
The NVWA determines which measures to apply for each finding, which may include:
- quarantining plants at the company;
- a mandatory crop treatment schedule;
- destruction of infested plant material.
Additionally, tracing is carried out to investigate the origin of the infestation and to determine where (potentially) infested plants may have been delivered. Monitoring is conducted at the locations using sticky traps.
Background
The NVWA has made multiple findings of S. dorsalis in the Netherlands in recent years. This insect is originally from Asia but is now present in various countries worldwide and can be spread through various plant species. View the distribution of Scirtothrips dorsalis on the EPPO website. Due to its wide range of host plants, introduction can occur through imports or trade within the European Union. To date, previous findings in the Netherlands have been successfully controlled. The insects pose no risk to human or animal health.
Call to the sector
The NVWA is calling on companies in the ornamental horticulture and tree nursery sectors to be vigilant when trading plants from countries where S. dorsalis and/or S. aurantii occur, such as China, Italy, Portugal, and Spain. Especially check newly purchased/imported plant material thoroughly for the presence of thrips (including dark-colored specimens). Always consult an expert if in doubt. Also request good guarantees from your supplier that the plants are free of Scirtothrips. If you suspect the presence of these insects at your company, report this to the NVWA. View how to recognize and report various quarantine thrips species.
More information
View more information about Q organisms, these thrips species, and the applicable measures. Companies with questions can contact the NVWA Customer Contact Centre.