First record of Pochazia shantungensis (Chou & Lu, 1977) (Hemiptera: Ricaniidae) in Bulgaria: alien and potentially invasive species on Via Pontica

The current study documents the first record of Pochazia shantungensis, an invasive pest species in the Ricaniidae family, within Bulgaria. Two specimens were observed and a single male specimen was collected in Burgas, marking a significant expansion in the distribution of this species. Known for its adaptability and agricultural impact, P. shantungensis represents a potential threat to native flora and crop systems. This paper provides details on the collection site, specimen identification, and the possible role of the Via Pontica migratory route in the introduction of P. shantungensis to Bulgaria. A comparable radiation pathway in a different non-native species of the same family, Orosanga japonica (Melichar, 1898), is discussed in the paper. Given the recent spread of P. shantungensis into the Western Palaearctic region, monitoring and further studies are recommended to assess its impact on local ecosystems.