Xylella fastidiosa subsp. multiplex detected in Toscana region, Italy
In Italy, during official surveys conducted in November 2018 in Toscana region, Xylella fastidiosa subsp. multiplex (EPPO A2 List) was found in the municipality of Monte Argentario, a peninsula located in the province of Grosseto. Various ornamental and wild Mediterranean plants gave positive results when tested for the bacterium. Phytosanitary measures were taken in accordance with EU Decision 2015/789 to eradicate the disease. A demarcated area was delimited in December 2018 and intensive surveys are being implemented. As of January 2019, 1120 samples have been collected from the demarcated area, and 72 plants belonging to the following species: Calicotome spinosa, Calicotome sp., Cercis siliquastrum, Cistis sp., Eleagnus angustifolia, Ficus carica, Lavandula sp., Prunus dulcis, Rhamnus alaternus, Rosmarinus officinalis, Polygala myrtifolia, Spartium junceum were found to be infected. In the affected area, both Philaenus spumarius and Neophilaenus campestris (both Hemiptera: Aphrophoridae) vectors have been found. Leaf scorch symptoms have been observed only in some plants (Prunus dulcis, Polygala myrtifolia and Spartium junceum).
The pest status of Xylella fastidiosa in Italy is officially declared as: Present, only in some parts of the Member State concerned.
Sources
NPPO of Italy (2019-01).
INTERNET
Regione Toscana. Servizio Fitosanitario Regionale. Monte Argentario: alcune piante colpite dal batterio ‘Xylella fastidiosa’. http://www.regione.toscana.it/-/monte-argentario-alcune-piante-colpite-dal-batterio-xylella-fastidiosa-