Can the import of predatory insects threaten biodiversity?

This commission comes from the Norwegian Environment Agency, which receives applications for the import of various species.

Applicants include farmers and horse owners seeking to control biting flies and houseflies in stables and barns, as these pests cause both animal welfare concerns and potential animal health problems.

The Norwegian Environment Agency is responsible for the Regulation on Alien Organisms, which aims to prevent non-native species from entering Norway, and to prevent their release, spread, or damage to nature. VKM’s scientific assessments are used as part of the Agency’s decision-making process when handling such applications.

The assignment

VKM’s primary task is to identify which species, in addition to the three species already applied for, that may be relevant for use in Norway. We will also assess whether these species could establish populations under Norwegian conditions and whether they might pose risks to native insect fauna if establishment occurs. The assessment will consider present climatic conditions as well as short- and long-term future scenarios.

The predatory insects in question are intended for use in livestock facilities where no physical barriers prevent their escape into the surrounding environment. Accordingly, we will evaluate factors related to the number of individuals that may disperse to the surrounding areas and how this may influence the overall risk profile. In theory, these species could prey upon, compete with, or hybridise with native species, or act as vectors for pathogenic organisms.

VKM will also identify and describe potential risk mitigation measures to reduce any risks that may be identified.

Project group

The VKM project group consists of members of VKM’s Panel on Biodiversity:

• Brett Sandercock, Scientific Lead

• Eva B. Thorstad

• Anders Nielsen

• Martin Malmstrøm, VKM Secretariat (Project Manager)

The risk assessment will be assessed and approved by VKM’s Panel on Biodiversity and is scheduled for publication at the end of September this year.