First report of Tomato spotted wilt tospovirus in Slovenia
The NPPO of Slovenia recently informed the EPPO Secretariat that an outbreak of Tomato spotted wilt tospovirus (EPPO A2 quarantine pest) was recorded for the first time during a regular survey of glasshouses. The origin of this outbreak could be related to the import of cuttings of Dendranthema. 242 samples were collected from 129 glasshouses and tested for the presence of tospoviruses. Samples were mainly taken from Dendranthema plants but also from pepper, tomato, ornamentals and weeds. The presence of Tomato spotted wilt tospovirus was confirmed in 17 glasshouses. In 1 glasshouse, Dendranthema plants were highly infested by the virus and their destruction was ordered. In the other 16 glasshouses, infection was less severe and the following measures were taken to eradicate the disease and prevent any further spread: treatment of insect vectors (in particular against Frankliniella occidentalis), control of weeds, and implementation of stricter hygiene measures. In 2001, survey on Tomato spotted wilt tospovirus will be intensified. In particular, it will include testing of Dendranthema cuttings at import, and of outdoor host plants. The situation of Tomato spotted wilt tospovirus in Slovenia can be described as: Present, found only under glasshouses at a few locations.
Sources
NPPO of Slovenia, 2001-05