The fungus Trichoderma afroharzianum is already present on maize in Germany and France. So far, it is listed neither in the Annexes of Regulation (EU) 2019/2072 nor by EPPO.

Different isolates of the fungus cause damage to maize. It is unknown whether the isolates are indigenous or introduced.

Due to suitable climatic conditions, it is assumed that Trichoderma afroharzianum can further establish in Germany in the open field. Establishment in another EU-Member State is possible, too.

Due to its possibly high damage potential to maize, T. afroharzianum poses a significant phytosanitary risk for Germany and other EU Member States.

However, since there is insufficient information on the fungal isolates, the phytosanitary risk cannot be conclusively clarified at present. It cannot be excluded that the fungus could cause significant damage, so that Article 29 of Regulation (EU) 2016/2031 would apply. In the first instance, each finding of infected plants should be documented and be reported to JKI. This Express-PRA will be revised as more relevant information becomes available.