Discovery of a naturally occurring individual of Acanthiophilus helianthi (Rossi) (Diptera: Tephritidae) in Korea, a managed quarantine pest by the Korean Animal and Plant Quarantine Agency

Abstract Acanthiophilus helianthi (Rossi) (safflower fly) is known to host a wide range of plant species belonging to the tribe Cardueae (Asteraceae). It is also known as a serious pest of safflower in the dry regions and marginal areas of the world where safflower is an important oilseed crop. Due to its possible introduction to Korean peninsula, it is listed as a managed quarantine pest by the Korean Animal and Plant Quarantine Agency. We here report a natural occurrence of A. helianthi for the first time in Korea, based on a single female specimen collected from northern part of South Korea. Since the discovery of A. helianthi is of agricultural and quarantine importance in this part of world, we here provide its detailed morphological redescription, diagnosis, and color photographs including genitalic structures for accurate identification. We also provide a brief account of its biology and pest status summarized from previous literature. In order to make sure the correct identification of the newly discovered Korean specimen of A. helianthi as well as to investigate systematic position of the genus Acanthiophilus , we conducted a DNA barcoding analysis. Finally, we here suggest that A. helianthi should be removed from the Korean quarantine pest list, since its natural occurrence in Korea is confirmed by the present study.