First report of Tomato brown rugose fruit virus in the Netherlands
The NPPO of the Netherlands recently informed the EPPO Secretariat of the first record of Tomato brown rugose fruit virus (Tobamovirus, ToBRFV - EPPO Alert List) on its territory. Suspicious symptoms were observed on the 1st of October 2019 during an official survey amongst tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) fruit producing companies in the Netherlands. Approximately 8% of the plants at one site (a greenhouse of 2.8 ha) in the municipality of Westland presented symptoms. Fruits of affected plants showed a delay in ripening. Leaf samples were tested for ToBRFV by DAS-ELISA, bioassay and real-time PCR and gave positive results. However, sequencing is ongoing to definitely confirm the identity of the virus. It is noted that plants were also infected with Pepino mosaic virus (PepMV) and that the symptoms observed may be caused by PePMV alone or in mixed infection with ToBRFV.
Phytosanitary measures have been taken to eradicate the disease, in line with EU Implementing Decision 2019/1615. Trace-back studies will be conducted to identify the origin of this infection. Specific surveillance will be intensified targeting both tomato fruit producing companies located in the vicinity of the infected greenhouse, as well as companies making use of the same packaging station.
The pest status of Tomato brown rugose fruit virus in the Netherlands is officially declared as: Transient, actionable, under eradication.
Sources
NPPO of the Netherlands (2019-10).
Official suspicion of Tomato brown rugose fruit virus (ToBRFV) in Solanum lycopersicum at one professional fruit production company in municipality Westland. https://english.nvwa.nl/topics/pest-reporting/contents/pest-reports