New finding of Grapevine flavescence dorée phytoplasma in Germany
In Germany, Grapevine flavescence dorée phytoplasma (EPPO A2 List) was first recorded in one grapevine plant (Vitis vinifera) in 2014 and declared eradicated in 2017 (EPPO RS 2014/202, 2017/135). The NPPO of Germany recently informed the EPPO Secretariat that the pathogen was found again in the framework of the project ‘FlavePrevent’ at the end of 2020 in one plant (Vitis vinifera) in a vineyard in Rheinland-Pfalz. The identity of the pathogen was confirmed by molecular methods. Due to the advanced age of the vines, it is excluded that the planting material could be the source of the infestation. It is assumed that the source of the infestation is an Alnus stand near the vineyard. The vector Scaphoideus titanus is not present in Germany but the pathogen may be transmitted from alders to grapevines by cicadas, such as Allygus mixtus, A. modestus and Orientus ishidae, which live on alders. Official eradication measures will be taken. The whole plot (1 ha, approximatively 3000 plants) will be destroyed. Intensive surveys for flavescence dorée and its vectors will be conducted.
The pest status of Grapevine flavescence dorée phytoplasma in Germany is officially declared as: Present, only at one location, under eradication.
Sources
NPPO of Germany (2021-01).