Pear decline phytoplasma found in Basilicata, Italy
In September 1997, pear trees showing decline symptoms were observed in a commercial orchard near Matera, Basilicata (south of Italy). Affected pear trees (cv. Williams) showed typical leaf rolling and premature reddening, as well as severe defoliation and stunting. These plants originated from nurseries of northern Italy. Analysis showed the presence of phytoplasmas belonging to subgroup 16SrX-C (pear decline and related strains). According to the authors, this is the first report of pear decline phytoplasma (EPPO A2 quarantine pest) in Basilicata.
Sources
Camela, I.; Vibio, M.; Rana, G.L.; Bertaccini, A. (1998) [Detection of decline in pear trees in the Basilicata region.]
Informatore Fitopatologico, no. 9, 35-38.