Situation of Erwinia amylovora in Switzerland
The Plant Protection Service of Switzerland has informed the EPPO Secretariat of the situation of Erwinia amylovora (EPPO A2 quarantine pest) observed in 1996, since the previous report (EPPO RS 96/144). In July 1996, the situation was considered as rather satisfactory, as less than 50 plants were found infected (essentially Pyrus and Cydonia). All plants were growing in 4 zones which were previously reported as contaminated in 1995. Infected plants were immediately destroyed, as well as potential hosts of fireblight situated in their vicinity. In August 1996, several foci of fireblight were detected, mainly on Cotoneaster salicifolius and to a lesser extent on C. dammeri, in the north-east of Switzerland (region of approximately 300 km2, from St-Gall to the Rhine). An extensive programme of elimination of Cotoneaster plants has been set up. At present, approximately 85 % of C. salicifolius populations have been destroyed and will continue in autumn in the urban part of St-Gall. The Swiss Plant Protection Service concluded that fireblight has caused very little damage to fruit orchards in 1996, and that, with the exception of one area in the north-east on Cotoneaster plants, all foci detected in 1995 are now well contained. On the basis of the 1996 situation, the areas presenting a risk have been delimited during the 1996-97 winter. Surveys are being intensified in these areas, and restrictions have been imposed on the movement of bee hives. So far, it appears that the pressure from the disease is extremely low.
Sources
Plant Protection Service of Switzerland, 1997-07.