Ralstonia solanacearum introduced in France and eradicated
In September 2000, Ralstonia solanacearum (EPPO A2 quarantine pest) was detected in France. It was identified during a regular survey, on a sample taken from one field of ware potatoes (Solanum tuberosum cv. Estima). The origin of this outbreak could be related to the introduction of Dutch potatoes by a producer of seed potatoes in Haute-Normandie in 1998. All seed potato lots multiplied and sold by this producer were identified. Growers who had planted these lots were located (in Haute-Normandie, Seine-Maritime and Nord Pas de Calais) and tests were carried out to determine the extent of the disease. Results showed that a limited number of fields were infested by R. solanacearum. Approximately 10 growers were concerned, and most of them were located in Seine-Maritime. Eradication measures were immediately applied: destruction of infected potatoes, disinfection of harvesting and storage equipment, prohibition of potato growing (or other root crops) on infested fields for several years, survey of volunteer potato plants and other potential host plants. During the next growing-season, general surveillance of this disease will be intensified, as well as phytosanitary checks of imported material to avoid any further introduction. As of January 2001, R. solanacearum is considered eradicated by the French NPPO. The situation of R. solanacearum in France can be described as follows: Absent: found only in a few areas and subsequently eradicated.
Sources
Descoin, M. (2001) N.D.L.R: des nouvelles de Ralstonia solanacearum.
Phytoma-La Défense des Végétaux, n° 534, p 32.
NPPO of France, 2001-01.