Plum pox virus found for the first time in the regions of Nord-Pas de Calais and Corse (FR)
The NPPO of France recently informed the EPPO Secretariat of the first reports of Plum pox virus (Potyvirus, PPV - EPPO A2 List) in two new regions: Nord-Pas de Calais (Northern France) and Corse. In both cases, phytosanitary measures have been taken in accordance with the EU Directive 2000/29/EC (and French legislation) and include: destruction of the infected lot, suspension of the issuance of plant passports for all plots located within a radius of 200 m of the infected plot, tracing-back and tracing-forward studies to identify potentially infected plants, intensification of surveillance activities in the vicinity of the nursery (within a radius of 2.5 km).
- Nord-Pas de Calais
During official phytosanitary inspections carried out in a nursery, the presence of PPV was confirmed in 8 plum trees (Prunus domestica cv. ‘Prunes des Roy’) by serological and molecular tests. These affected plum trees showed leaf symptoms (yellow ringspots and discouloration) and were grown on the same commercial nursery plot as plants ready to be sold. As similar symptoms were observed in 3 other production plots of this nursery, samples will be collected and tested. If appropriate, phytosanitary measures will be extended to these 3 other potentially infected plots.
- Corse
During official phytosanitary inspections, symptoms of PPV were first observed in June 2012 in a plum (Prunus domestica) orchard. The presence of the virus was confirmed in July and a survey showed that 384 plum trees were infected.
The pest status of Plum pox virus in France is officially declared as: Present, restricted distribution.
Sources
NPPO of France (2012-09, 2012-10).