Update on the distribution of palm lethal yellowing MLO in Mexico
Since its appearance in Cozumel, Mexico, in 1977 palm lethal yellowing MLO (EPPO A1 quarantine pest) has spread considerably within the country. Now the disease is present in the states of Quintana Roo, Yucatan and Campeche. Since its establishment the disease has destroyed 850 000 palm trees corresponding to 8500 ha of palm plantations. The disease is further spreading within the country and is now found on the Isla del Carmen threatening the major coconut producing regions of Tabasco, Veracruz and the Pacific coast. Main objective to control the disease is the plantation of resistant palm cultivars.
Sources
Direccion General de Sanidad Vegetal (1993) Amarillamiento letal del Cocotero
Boletin SARH Fitosanitario Vol. 2 No. 5, 2-3.