The EFSA Panel on Plant Health performed a pest categorisation of Diabrotica barberi (Coleoptera:
Chrysomelidae), the northern corn rootworm, for the EU. D. barberi is a univoltine species occurring in
mid-western and eastern USA and Canada, where it reproduces on maize (Zea mays), the preferred
larval host. A small proportion of individuals can develop to a lesser extent on spelt (Triticum spelta), rice
(Oryza sativa), millet (Panicum miliaceum) and a few North American wild grasses. Eggs are laid in the
soil of maize fields, where they overwinter and can enter a diapause which can extend for more than one
winter. Larvae hatch in late spring and early summer. Adult emergence peaks in the summer to feed on
maize tassels, silks and ear tips. Adults abandon maize fields looking for other feeding hosts and return
to maize for oviposition during late summer and autumn. D. barberi is considered a key pest of maize,
together with other rootworm species of the same genus. D. barberi is regulated in the EU by Directive
2000/29/EC (Annex IAI). Within this Directive, a general prohibition of soil from most third countries
prevents the entry of D. barberi larvae. However, adults carried on sweetcorn or green maize are
potential pathways for entry into the EU. Climatic conditions and the wide availability of maize provide
conditions to support establishment in the EU. Following establishment, impact on maize yields is
anticipated. Phytosanitary measures are available to inhibit entry of this pest. D. barberi satisfies the
criteria, which are within the remit of EFSA to assess for it to be regarded as a potential Union quarantine
pest. D. barberi does not meet the criteria of occurring in the EU nor plants for planting being the
principal means of spread for it to be regarded as a potential Union regulated non-quarantine pest