Study On Pest Risk Analysis For The Importation Of Alfalfa Hay (Medicago Sativa) From Sudan

Alfalfa, Medicago sativa, is a perennial flowering plant in the pea family Fabaceae cultivated as an important forage crop in many countries around the world. Sudan is suitable for growing Alfalfa.At the request of quarantine access of Sudan alfalfa, the study was to carry out pest risk analysis for the importation of alfalfa hay from Sudan. The PRA is in accordance with the analysis methods and steps in "Guideline for pest risk analysis for import and export plant and plant product" (GB/T 21658-2008) and "Technical requirement of pest risk analysis for import and export plant and plant product" (GB/T 20879-2007).We reviewed the literature about alfalfa and accessed to related database (such as CABI) as well as main international and national plant protection organization websites. The study indicate the pests associated with Medicago sativa from Sudan were 66 species, including 27 species of insects,16 species of weeds,8 species of fungi,7 species of virus,5 species of nematodes,2 species of bacteria and 1 species of acarid. According the distribution and official regulatory status of the pests, we made a primary assessment and indicate 16 species of pests need further assessment. From aspects of introduction potential, establishment potential, spread potential after establishment and economic importance, we made a detailed assessment for 16 species of pests mentioned above. Risk assessment results were 10 very high-risk species:Liriomyza trifolii, Chenopodium murale, Cuscuta campestris, Lolium temulentum, Orobanche minor, Pennisetum macrourum, Dickeya chrysanthemi, Meloidogyne arenaria, Meloidogyne incognita, Meloidogyne javanica; 2 high-risk species:Oedaleus senegalensis, Spodoptera littoralis; 1 mid-risk species:Fumaria officinalis; 3 low-risk species:Asphodelus tenuifolius, Lucerne enation rhabdo virus,Peanut stunt virus. Together with the assessment report of the quality and safety control system of Sudan for exportation of alfalfa hay and the Plant Quarantine In Origin Area, the study listed the risk management options finally for reducing risk to acceptable level. Part of the study results have been adopted by AQSIQ.