Erwinia amylovora is suspected in Ukraine but not confirmed
The Plant Protection Service of Ukraine informed the EPPO Secretariat that in 1997 symptoms resembling those of fireblight (Erwinia amylovora – EPPO A2 quarantine pest) were observed in Ukraine. Necrosis on twigs, shrivelled fruit, cankers were observed in the field. Several samples were taken to the laboratory, and preliminary results showed that two samples seemed to present the characteristics of Erwinia and further tests are being carried out on these two samples. The Plant Protection Service stressed that it is too early to conclude that E. amylovora is present in Ukraine. In 1998, further samples will be taken and tested to clarify the situation.
Sources
Plant Protection Service of Ukraine, 1997-12.