This Quickscan was prompted by the interception of the beetle Lagria villosa on imported stems of Ocimum basilicum.

Lagria villosa is not known to occur in the EU. It can potentially establish in greenhouses in the Netherlands and outdoors in southern EU Member States.

In South America, where the pest was introduced, it has become a pest in several countries.

Larvae and adults feed on flowers, leaves and fruits of various economically important crops, including cucumber, green beans, lettuce, maize, peach, potato, rapeseed, soy, strawberry, and tomato

If Lagria villosa were to become established in the EU, it may cause damage in both greenhouse and field crops due to the feeding activities of the larvae and adult beetles. The magnitude of impact is, however highly uncertain.