Further details on the situation of Erwinia amylovora in Morocco
In Morocco, fireblight (Erwinia amylovora – EPPO A2 List) was first found in 2006 in the region of Meknes in one pear orchard (EPPO RS 2007/021). In May and June 2007, samples from other pear orchards showing symptoms of fireblight were collected and tested. As a result, E. amylovora was detected on 4 farms in the communes of Aïn Orma, Aït Ouallal and Dar Oum Soltane, all located in the prefecture of Meknes. Eradication measures will continue to be applied in this region of Morocco. All imported material will be officially inspected after plantation (twice during the growing season). A decree of compulsory control of fireblight in the prefecture of Meknes will soon be published and will include the following measures: all planting material must be tested for the presence of fireblight, movements of host plants and of bee hives from the infected area are prohibited. In addition, information campaigns for nurserymen, growers and technicians are being carried out.
Sources
Achbani EH (2007) Feu bactérien sur Poirier au Maroc. Première apparition de cette brûlure bactérienne sur poirier dans la région de Meknès. Phytoma – La Défense des Végétaux no. 606, 26-28.