The fungus Diplodia bulgarica was first detected in Bulgaria in 2012. It is already present in Germany. So far, it was found in the Federal States Baden-Wrttemberg (widespread) and Hesse (one finding). It is not listed in the Annexes of Regulation (EU) 2019/2072 or by EPPO. 

Diplodia bulgarica infects apple and pear trees.

Due to suitable climatic conditions, it is assumed that D. bulgarica can further establish and spread in Germany in the open field. The establishment in other EU-Member States (Central and South Europe) is possible, too.  Due to its high damage potential for apple and pear trees, D. bulgarica poses a significant risk for the cultivation of apples and pears in Germany and other EU-Member States. Damage occurs especially in case of severe drought and on stressed trees. There are effective pathways that can be influenced only  to a limited extent. 

Thus, Diplodia bulgarica is not classified as a quarantine pest and Article 29 of Regulation (EU) 2016/2031 does not apply. Nevertheless, it is strictly recommended to destroy infected (plant) material, at least where the application of fungicides is not possible or not allowed. For better clarification of the spread in Germany and the EU, a survey on apple and pear trees regarding the infection with D. bulgarica is necessary.