First record of Beet necrotic yellow vein benyvirus in Morocco
In 2004/2005, during routine surveys done by the regional services of the NPPO of Morocco on sugarbeet crops, rhizomania-like symptoms were observed on a plot of approximately 30 ha near Tadla (province of Beni Mellal, centre of Morocco). Symptoms were characterized by vein yellowing, wilting of leaves and proliferation of roots. Sample analysis confirmed the presence of Beet necrotic yellow vein benyvirus (causing rhizomania – EPPO A2 list). It is suspected that the import of second-hand agricultural machinery from Italy was the source of this infestation. According to the EPPO Secretariat, this is the first report of rhizomania in Morocco. Official control measures are being taken and include the use of tolerant cultivars, information of growers, delimitation of the field concerned as a quarantine area. Surveys are continuing in the vicinity of the infected field.
The situation of Beet necrotic yellow vein benyvirus in Morocco is officially declared as follows: Present, localized focus in the region of Tadla, under official control.
Sources
NPPO of Morocco, 2005-07.