Clavibacter michiganensis subsp. michiganensis occurs in Algeria
Tomato is an important and expanding crop in Algeria. Two surveys were carried out independently in 1988/89 and in 1997/98 on the possible presence of bacterial canker (Clavibacter michiganensis subsp. michiganensis – EPPO A2 quarantine pest) on tomato crops in the coastal region near Alger and in the Mitidja plain. Tomatoes grown in the field, under plastic tunnels and in nurseries were visually inspected and diseased samples were tested in the laboratory for the presence of C. m. subsp. michiganensis. In 1988/89, 85 growers (650 ha) were inspected and bacterial canker was observed in 13 production units. In 1997/98, 46 growers (400 ha) were inspected and 4 production units were infected. For the two surveys, the mean infection levels were 15.3% and 9.3%, respectively. All isolated strains were identified as C. m. subsp. michiganensis. According to the EPPO Secretariat, this is the first report of C. m. subsp. michiganensis in Algeria.
The situation of C. m. subsp. michiganensis in Algeria can be described as follows: Present: found in the coastal region near Alger and in the Mitidja plain.
Sources
Benchabane, M.; Boutekrabt, A; Toua, D. (2000) Le chancre bactérien de la tomate en Algérie.
Bulletin OEPP/EPPO Bulletin, 30(4), 337-339.