asian gypsy moth guidelines 2005.pdf

Examining Carriers: Clearing Vessels Taking Emergency Action for Suspect Asian Gypsy Moth (AGM) ShipsTaking Emergency Action for Suspect Asian Gypsy Moth (AGM) Ships The purpose of the emergency action is to prevent the artificial spread of Asian Gypsy Moth (AGM), Lymantria dispar, from high-risk areas including Far East Russian and Japanese ports where AGM populations are at high densities. Inspection and exclusion of contaminated ships will prevent the artificial spread of AGM. The AGM displays significant behavioral differences compared to the North American gypsy moth (NAGM). The female AGM is an active flyer that is attracted to lights, and capable of flying up to 25 miles. The AGM feeds on larch and other conifers as well as on alder and willow. Oaks and other hardwood species are also acceptable hosts. The female AGM lays eggs during August and September in Far East Russian and Japanese ports. Attracted by the lights on ships, the females may lay eggs on the superstructure. The larvae can be blown by the wind short distances on silk strands. Due to these characteristics, a list of vessels that called in Far East Russian and Japanese ports between July 15 and September 30 of the previous year has been developed: the AGM Vessel Alert List. APHIS asks shipping interests not to charter ships that called at Far East Russian or identified high-risk Japanese ports during the egg laying period for voyages that would put the ships in U.S. or Canadian ports during the high-risk egg hatching period. Any ship that arrives during this period that is found infested will be ordered to leave U.S. waters immediately. Although APHIS has no regulation prohibiting the entry of AGM high-risk ships, the Plant Protection Act grants the authority to order infested ships to leave U.S. waters. Determine Status of Arriving Ships Determine which ships should be excluded entry, which should be boarded on arrival, and which require normal, non–AGM boarding procedure