Prays endocarpa (hereinafter referred to as "this species") is a species of moth in the family Tillandsia, order Lepidoptera, found in parts of the Indian subcontinent and Southeast Asia. It is known to damage Citrus plants and the Rutaceae family, specifically the vernal tree (Citrus serrata). The larvae bore into the peel of young fruit, causing lumps or holes that deform the fruit as it grows, affecting its marketability. While generally considered an insignificant Citrus pest, it can be a problem in some regions, particularly Vietnam, Indonesia, and Malaysia. While its invasion outside its native range is unknown, there is a possibility of its introduction through the trade of Citrus plants (CABI, 2025).
In Japan, this species is classified as a "harmful animal that has not been confirmed to pose no risk of damaging useful plants if it spreads," and if discovered during import inspections, it must be disinfected or disposed of (Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry, 1950a, b, c; Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, 2011). To clarify the plant quarantine status of this species and to consider appropriate risk management measures, we conducted a pest and disease risk analysis.
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