Quarantine Status of Ukraine

Abstract

Goal. To analyze the spread of quarantine species of pests, plant disease pathogens, phytoparasitic nematodes, and weeds based on data from the State Service of Ukraine on Food Safety and Consumer Protection.

Methods. Official data on the spread of quarantine harmful organisms were interpreted using the analytical-comparative method.

Results. As of 01.01.2025, the spread of nine species of plant pests (five from List A-2 of the List of Regulated Harmful Organisms and four from List A-1), eight diseases (five from List A-2 and three from List A-1), one species of nematode (from List A-2), and nine species plus one genus of weeds (from List A-2) was recorded in Ukraine. Quarantine pests and weeds were more widely distributed in the southern and eastern regions, while the distribution range of diseases was more shifted toward the western part of Ukraine. In 2024, an expansion of distribution areas was recorded for the western corn rootworm, American white moth, potato tuber moth, South American tomato moth, emerald ash borer, and the brown marmorated stink bug; among weeds — for common ragweed, creeping knotweed, Cuscuta spp., and particularly field dodder. A decrease in infested areas was recorded for potato wart disease, golden potato cyst nematode, and tobacco ringspot nepovirus.

Conclusions. As of 01.01.2025, the western corn rootworm and American white moth were the most widespread among quarantine pests, flax rust among diseases, and common ragweed among quarantine weeds. The situation is alarming regarding the spread of species listed in List A-1 of the List of Regulated Harmful Organisms, particularly the emerald ash borer and the brown marmorated stink bug. To prevent the introduction and spread of quarantine plant pests, all business entities engaged in plant production must strictly adhere to relevant phytosanitary measures.