First report of Phytophthora ramorum in Italy
The NPPO of Italy recently informed the EPPO Secretariat of the first report of Phytophthora ramorum (EPPO Alert List) on its territory. The pathogen was detected in May 2013 during survey activities conducted in the province of Pistoia, Toscana region. Symptoms of P. ramorum were observed on potted plants of Viburnum tinus cv. ‘Eve Price’ in 2 nurseries located in Chiesina Montalese (municipality of Pistoia) and Alberghi (municipality of Pescia). The identity of the pathogen was confirmed using morphological and molecular methods (PCR tests, sequencing). Eradication measures were taken in accordance with the EU Decision 2002/757/EC. By the end of June 2013, all infected plants had been destroyed, as well as the associated growing media and plant debris. No plants belonging to the infected lots could be commercialized, and quarantine measures were extended to all potential host plants located in the vicinity of the outbreak sites. Studies have been undertaken in order to identify the origin of the infection.
The situation of Phytophthora ramorum in Italy can be described as follows: Transient, first found in 2013 in 2 lots of potted Viburnum tinus (Toscana region), under eradication.
Sources
NPPO of Italy (2013-06).