First report of Citrus leprosis virus in Panama
Citrus is an expanding fruit crop in Panama (14,000 ha). In the Province of Chiriqui (bordering Costa Rica), 4,300 ha are planted essentially with Valencia and navel oranges. In commercial orchards near Potrerillos and Boquete (Chiriqui Province), some trees showed symptoms resembling those of Citrus leprosis virus (EPPO A1 quarantine pest). Symptoms were characterized by chlorotic rings or spots on leaves, stem necrosis, localized ring-like or depressed lesions on fruits. The mite Brevipalpus phoenicis, which is known as a vector of Citrus leprosis virus, was collected in all symptomatic orchards. Samples were collected and observed by electron microscopy. Considering symptomatology, presence of B. phoenicis, cytopathic effects and presence of virions, it was considered that Citrus leprosis is present in Panama. It was estimated that the disease occurs in an area of 100 km² near Potrerillos and 25 km² near Boquete. This is the first report of Citrus leprosis virus in Panama and in Central America. It is felt that the virus has spread northward from South America. The situation of Citrus leprosis virus in Panama can be described as: Present: only in Chiriqui Province.
Sources
Saavedra de Dominguez, F.; Bernal, A.; Childers, C.C.; Kitajima, E.W. (2001) First report of citrus leprosis in Panama.
Plant Disease, 85(2), p 228.