The spider mite Tetranychus ludeni does already occur in Germany and the EU. In 1913, the first description was made by Zacher on specimens that were collected in greenhouses in Germany and in hotbeds in France, but it is assumed that the species has its origin in the tropics. So far, the mite is not listed in the Annexes of Regulation (EU) 2019/2072 or by EPPO.

Tetranychus ludeni is very polyphagous and infests more than 60 plant families, amongst others Cucurbitaceae, Fabaceae, Malvaceae, Rosaceae and Solanaceae.

Due to unsuitable climate conditions, it is assumed that T. ludeni cannot establish in Germany in the open field. Nevertheless, a (further) establishment in southern EU-Member States and in glasshouses is possible.

Tetranychus ludeni shows a great resemblance with the RNQP (regulated non-quarantine pest) species T. urticae. Thus, measures should be comparable. Due to the risk of confusion between the two species, it is assumed that the spider mite is already more widespread than officially known.

For this reason, Tetranychus ludeni is not classified as a quarantine pest and Article 29 of the Regulation (EU) 2016/2031 does not apply. Currently, listing as RNQP is not pursued, but plant material should be “practically free“ from this spider mite.