We conducted a risk analysis for the release of the leaf spot pathogen Neoramulariopsis unguis-cati for the biological control of cat’s claw creeper (Dolichandra unguis-cati).
We conducted the risk analysis in 2 key steps:
- Released the draft report of the risk analysis for the release of Neoramulariopsis unguis-cati for the biological control of Dolichandra unguis-cati on 31 July 2025, via Biosecurity Advice 2025/P04 for a 30 calendar day consultation period.
- Released the final report of the risk analysis on 6 November 2025.
We recommended that the release of the leaf spot pathogen Neoramulariopsis unguis-cati for the biological control of cat’s claw creeper (Dolichandra unguis-cati) should be permitted, subject to meeting the standard quarantine requirements for biological control agents.
It has been determined that the risk estimate for the leaf spot pathogen targeting plants other than cat’s claw creeper (Dolichandra unguis-cati) is Negligible. This risk estimate achieves Australia’s appropriate level of protection (ALOP). Details of the assessment that determined this risk estimate are contained in the final risk analysis report.
Download the final report
Final risk analysis report for the release of Neoramulariopsis unguis-cati for the biological control of Dolichandra unguis-cati
This final risk analysis assesses the application made by Queensland Department of Primary Industries (QDPI) to release the leaf spot pathogen Neoramulariopsis unguis-cati to control cat’s claw creeper (Dolichandra unguis-cati) in Australia.
If you have difficulty accessing this file, contact us for help.
Download the draft report
Draft risk analysis report for the release of Neoramulariopsis unguis-cati for the biological control of Dolichandra unguis-cati
This draft risk analysis assesses the application made by QDPI to release the leaf spot pathogen Neoramulariopsis unguis-cati to control cat’s claw creeper (Dolichandra unguis-cati) in Australia.
If you have difficulty accessing this file, contact us for help.
Download the application from Queensland Department of Primary Industries
Application for the release of Neoramulariopsis unguis-cati for the biological control of Dolichandra unguis-cati
Note: the application report may not meet Australian Government accessibility guidelines as it has not been prepared by the department.
If you have difficulty accessing this file, contact us for help.
Next steps
Publication of the final risk analysis report represents the end of the risk analysis process. If we approve release of the biological control agent, a letter will be sent to the applicant providing conditions of release.
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For more information, email imports or phone 1800 900 090 (option 1, option 1).