Stolbur phytoplasma found on potatoes in Germany
The NPPO of Germany recently informed the EPPO Secretariat of the occurrence of Stolbur phytoplasma (‘Candidatus Phytoplasma solani’ - EPPO A2 List) on potatoes in Rheinlandpfalz. On 2009-10-30, the pathogen was identified by laboratory tests on potatoes (Solanum tuberosum) showing typical symptoms. In addition, the phytoplasma was detected in weeds, such as Convolvulus sp., associated with the potato crop. It can be recalled that in 2008, the pathogen had been found in the same area (EPPO RS 2008/213). It is assumed that the infection occurred after planting as the disease presented a patchy distribution within the crop and the insect vector (Hyalesthes obsoletus) was present. The harvested potatoes were used by the enterprise itself. In 2010, the neighbourhood of the infested field will be intensively examined to detect the possible presence of the pathogen in potato plants and weeds, as well as the insect vector.
The pest status of Stolbur phytoplasma on potatoes in Germany is officially declared as: Present, single cases, actionable, under eradication.
Sources
NPPO of Germany (2010-06).