Chloridea subflexa is oligophagous and infects the genus Physalis (Solanaceae).

It is assumed that C. subflexa can establish in the open in Germany due to at least partially suitable climatic conditions; establishment in other EU member states is also possible. Establishment is also possible in protected cultivation.

Risk assessment is difficult because some factors indicate a rather low, while others indicate a rather moderate, damage potential for Physalis species. The probability of the moth being introduced via imports of Physalis fruits is assessed as very low because the fruits are subject to plant health certification and are generally intended for consumption, and because imports of Solanaceae for planting from third countries where the moth occurs are prohibited. Therefore, the species is not classified as quarantine-relevant, and Article 29 of Regulation (EU) 2016/2031 does not apply. However, in the case of the PRA at hand, the risk assessment is based on research and breeding purposes, i.e., routes of introduction are not relevant because C. subflexa is to be imported directly. For this reason, a risk to Physalis species may still exist. Therefore, measures to prevent release are recommended, including the application of good laboratory practices, such as the eradication of all stages of C. subflexa after the trials have been completed.