Update of the situation of Xylella fastidiosa in Israel
In Israel Xylella fastidiosa (EPPO A2 List) subsp. fastidiosa was first found in 2017-2018 on almond (Prunus dulcis) trees in the Hula Valley, north-eastern part of Israel (EPPO RS 2019/121). During the late summer of 2021, in the framework of official annual surveys, symptomatic grapevines (Vitis vinifera) were sampled and tested by real-time PCR. The presence of X. fastidiosa subsp. fastidiosa was confirmed in five commercial vineyards in the Eastern Upper Galilee area, which is adjacent to the Hula Valley, and near the border with Lebanon. Sequencing showed that the pathogen has the same sequence type that had been previously reported in almond in Israel (ST1). All infected grapevines will be destroyed. A delimiting survey is being conducted around the infected vineyards to define the infected area. Surveys are ongoing throughout the country to ensure freedom in other areas, in Vitis vinifera as well as other potential hosts. The disease in almond is under eradication in the Hula Valley and no new infection in almond has been discovered during 2021.
An awareness campaign has been carried out with representatives of grapevine growers and nurseries to encourage reporting of suspicious symptoms. Movement of plants for planting from the infected area is prohibited.
The pest status of Xylella fastidiosa subsp. fastidiosa in Israel is officially declared as: Present: in one area only and under official control. Previously reported in Israel in Prunus dulcis (almond) in a limited area of distribution in the Hula Valley and currently reported in Vitis vinifera (grapevine) in a limited area of infestation in the Eastern Upper Galilee, adjacent to the previously reported area of infestation. Precise delimitation of the contained area of infestation is in process.
Sources
NPPO of Israel (2021-12).