Clavibacter michiganensis subsp. michiganensis found in the Netherlands
In December 2007, the presence of Clavibacter michiganensis subsp. michiganensis (EPPO A2 List) was suspected on tomatoes (Lycopersicon esculentum cv. Bizarr) grown at 1 propagation company and 4 fruit producing companies in the Netherlands. The identity of the pathogen was then confirmed by using the EPPO diagnostic protocol with an improved purification method. This outbreak is not linked to the previous one reported in April 2007 (see EPPO RS 2007/090). The possible source of infection is still being investigated, but is most likely related to contaminated seeds of the cultivar ‘Bizarr’ which have been produced in Bolivia. As the outbreak was detected at an early stage, phytosanitary measures were taken immediately to eradicate the disease.
The pest status of Clavibacter michiganensis subsp. michiganensis in the Netherlands is officially declared as: Transient, under eradication.
Sources
NPPO of the Netherlands, 2008-01.
INTERNET (last retrieved in 2008-01)
Website of the Dutch Ministry of Agriculture, Nature and Food Quality. Pest report. Clavibacter michiganensis subsp. michiganensis in tomato plants intended for planting. http://www.minlnv.nl/portal/page?_pageid=116,1640321;_dad=portal;_schema=PORTAL;p_file_id=24804