Xylella fastidiosa subsp. fastidiosa detected on grapevine in Italy
As reported in February 2024, Xylella fastidiosa subsp. fastidiosa (EPPO A2 List, as X. fastidiosa) was first found in Italy in the municipality of Triggiano (province of Bari, region of Puglia). In this location, X. fastidiosa subsp. fastidiosa was detected in 6 almond (Prunus dulcis) trees, and eradication measures were taken (EPPO RS 2024/038). Further intensive surveys have been conducted in the demarcated area (in Triggiano), and as of the 22nd of March 2024, approximately 6000 samples were collected from potential host plants. In total, 25 plants were found to be infected by X. fastidiosa subsp. fastidiosa: 22 Prunus dulcis (including the 6 plants of the initial detection), 2 Vitis vinifera (grapevine) and 1 Prunus avium (cherry). It is noted that the 6 almond trees found to be infected in February 2024 have already been destroyed, and eradication measures are continuing. This is the first time that X. fastidiosa subsp. fastidiosa is detected on grapevine in Italy.
The pest status of Xylella fastidiosa subsp. fastidiosa in Italy is officially declared as: Present, under eradication.
Sources
NPPO of Italy (2024-03).