Outbreaks of Clavibacter michiganensis subsp. michiganensis in Sardegna and Lazio (IT)
The NPPO of Italy recently informed the EPPO Secretariat of two outbreaks of Clavibacter michiganensis subsp. michiganensis (EPPO A2 List) in Sardegna and Lazio regions.
- Sardegna
In March 2013, C. michiganensis subsp. michiganensis was found during official surveys in 5 farms (total glasshouse surface of 15;000 m²) growing tomatoes for fruit production in the province of Cagliari. Affected plants showed wilting and dieback. The bacterium was detected by PCR on Solanum lycopersicum cvs. ‘Bubu’ and ‘Arawak’. The origin of this outbreak has not yet been identified, but it is suspected that infected seeds or substrate might be the cause. The following phytosanitary measures were taken by the Regional PPO to eradicate the disease: destruction of the crops, disinfection, soil solarization and rotation with non-host plants. Additional surveys will be conducted in tomato production sites and nurseries.
The pest status of Clavibacter michiganensis subsp. michiganensis in Sardegna is officially declared as: Transient, actionable, under eradication, detected in protected cultivation.
- Lazio
In April 2013, C. michiganensis subsp. michiganensis was found during official surveys in 1 glasshouse (approximately 1;000 m²) of tomatoes grown for fruit production, in the province of Latina. Affected plants showed wilting and dieback. The bacterium was detected according to the EPPO diagnostic protocol PM7/42 in Solanum lycopersicum cv. ‘Portento’. The origin of this outbreak has not yet been identified, but it is suspected that infected seeds may be the cause. The following phytosanitary measures were taken by the Regional PPO to eradicate the disease: destruction of the crop, disinfection of equipment and machinery, soil solarization and rotation with non-host plants.
The pest status of Clavibacter michiganensis subsp. michiganensis in Lazio is officially declared as: Transient, actionable, under eradication, detected in protected cultivation.
Sources
NPPO of Italy (2013-04, 2013-05).