Survey on Plum pox potyvirus in Slovenia
In Slovenia, typical symptoms of Plum pox potyvirus (PPV – EPPO A2 list) were first observed in 1987 in several apricot, peach and plum orchards. PPV was detected in intensive orchards (where incidence varied from 10 to 70%), in nurseries and on single trees throughout the country. In 1998, a systematic survey was initiated to prevent and control the spread of PPV, to establish pest-free production sites and ensure production of healthy planting material. Numerous samples were collected and tested by DAS-ELISA. During the period 1998-2000, despite phytosanitary measures, results showed that PPV was widespread in Slovenia and that PPV infections gradually increased in nurseries and parent plantations (1 site in 1998 to 22 sites in 2000). In addition, an alarming incidence of infected trees was found in buffer zones. It is thought that this rapid increase of PPV could be related to the rapid spread of the Marcus strain (PPV-M). In 2002, phytosanitary measures were strengthened. As a consequence, 44,105 mother trees, rootstocks and grafted plants were destroyed in 2000. In 2001/2002, the survey focused mainly on nurseries, mother trees and stool beds. In 2001, a high incidence of PPV was still found in nurseries and parent plantations, and many plants were destroyed (72 mother trees and 25,027 grafted rootstocks). Finally in 2002, a significant decrease was observed in nurseries, plantations and stool beds, as a consequence of the vast effort dedicated to containment of PPV. It is estimated that the cost of survey reached 495,000 EUR for the last 3 years and that compensations paid to the growers from 1999 to 2002 amounted 312,859 EUR. In spite of the high costs, the survey will continue in coming years.
The situation of Plum pox potyvirus in Slovenia can be described as follows: Present, first found in 1987, widespread but decreasing since 2002, under official control.
Sources
Viršček Marn, M.; Mavrič, I.; Benko-Beloglavec, A. Knapič, V.; Weilguny, H. (2004) Results of the systematic survey and control of Plum pox potyvirus in Slovenia.
Bulletin OEPP/EPPO Bulletin, 34(1), 127-131.