Survey on potato bacteria in Estonia: first report of Clavibacter michiganensis subsp. sepedonicus and absence of Ralstonia solanacearum
In 2000, the Estonian Plant Production Inspectorate started a systematic survey for Clavibacter michiganensis subsp. sepedonicus and Ralstonia solanacearum (both EPPO A2 quarantine pests). Samples (2000 potato harvest) were tested by IF at the Plant Health Laboratory. The results of the survey are the following:
- Seed potato production: 78 samples were tested, no R. solanacearum and no C. michiganensis subsp. sepedonicus were found.
- Ware potato production: 73 samples were tested, C. michiganensis subsp. sepedonicus was found in 9 samples. No R. solanacearum was found.
- Imported potatoes: all consignments of seed potatoes and most consignments of ware potates were tested in the laboratory. No R. solanacearum or C. michiganensis subsp. sepedonicus were found.
The EPPO Secretariat had previously no data on the presence of C. michiganensis subsp. sepedonicus in Estonia. The NPPO of Estonia stated that phytosanitary measures in accordance with EU directive 93/85/EEC are being applied in order to prevent further spread of C. michiganensis subsp. sepedonicus and to eradicate the disease.
The situation of the two bacteria in Estonia can be described as follows:
C. michiganensis subsp. sepedonicus: Present: limited distribution.
R. solanacearum: Absent: confirmed by survey.
Sources
NPPO of Estonia, 2001-06