Notes on the navel orangeworm, Amyelois transitella (Walker) (Lepidoptera Pyralidae) in Europe, a potential Union quarantine pest

Navel orangeworm, Amyelois transitella (Walker) (Lepidoptera Pyralidae), satisfies the criteria that are within the remit of the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) to assess this species as a potential Union quarantine pest. A. transitella occurs in North, Central and South America. This species has been cited as present in Italy, Austria and Germany; however, no records was found, and it may also refer to an interception, the pest does not seem to be established in Europe. Should A. transitella arrive in the EU, the availability of hosts and occurrence of potentially suitable climates would be conducive for establishment. Because of the economic importance of this species, morphological characters, biological notes and seasonal ecology are reported.