Updated situation of ‘Candidatus Phytoplasma mali’ in Norway
In Norway, ‘Candidatus Phytoplasma mali’ (associated with apple proliferation - EPPO A2 List) was detected for the first time in 1996, although it is suspected that it has been present since the 1970s. From 2009 to 2011, studies were conducted on Malus spp. (mainly Malus domestica) in commercial orchards (31), nurseries (4) and in 1 private garden. Results showed that the pathogen occurred in several municipalities in the counties of Telemark (Sauherad), Hordaland (Ullensvang) and Sogn og Fjordane (Sogndal, Leikanger, Lærdal, Aurland). In many affected fruit orchards, high incidence of infection (up to 70-80% trees affected) and severe damage (unmarketable fruit) were observed. Phytosanitary measures were taken, and included the destruction of host plants and the application of chemical control against insect vectors when there was risk of spread to nurseries. Official surveys will continue in 2011 (in fruit orchards located in the vicinity of nurseries producing Malus) and the official production checks will be intensified in nurseries.
The pest status of ‘Candidatus Phytoplasma mali’ in Norway is officially declared as: Present, only in some areas, subject to official control.
Sources
NPPO of Norway (2011-06).