This rapid assessment shows: 

Risk of entry – moderately likely (on growing plants from Europe). 

The main route of entry is likely to be on growing ornamental plants from countries where the mealybug has been reported. It has, however, only been found on three occasions despite the popularity of Bougainvillea and Buddleja in the horticultural trade. Detection of early instars is difficult, particularly when present at low density. The mealybug may only be observed when mature specimens and ovisacs are present or numbers have built up to such a density that they are already causing conspicuous damage. 

Risk of establishment – very likely on indoor plantings, very unlikely outdoors It is likely to be able to establish on indoor plantings, wherever suitable hosts are grown. 

Rate of spread – very slow (natural) to moderate (in trade).

Economic impact – a very small impact to Bougainvillea.

Endangered area – indoor plantings. 

Risk management - may be controlled by using the same products currently used for other glasshouse mealybugs. In the absence of phytosanitary measures the scale is likely to continue to enter the UK. It may be controlled using the same products used for other mealybugs already present in the UK.