Interception of tomato fruit blotch virus in the Netherlands
The NPPO of the Netherlands recently informed the Secretariat of a finding of tomato fruit blotch virus (Blunervirus, ToFBV) during import inspections on tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) fruits originating from the Canary Islands (ES). These fruits presented irregular chlorotic blotches. Sequencing of total RNA by High-Throughput Sequencing allowed an association with ToFBV to be established. In total, the virus was detected in fruits from eight lots that were imported between May 2019 and March 2022.
ToFBV affects the fruits, and no leaf symptoms have been reported to date. No vector has been described so far, although in Brazil the disease was associated with tomato russet mite (Aculops lycopersici).
ToFBV is a recently described virus and its current distribution may not be fully known. Findings have recently been reported from Italy, Australia (EPPO RS 2020/184), and Brazil (RS 2022/143). So far, ToFBV has not been observed in the Netherlands and no official phytosanitary measures are being taken following these interceptions. Nevertheless, the NPPO considers that it is important for growers to be aware of this finding. Further studies on the disease epidemiology are needed in order to define appropriate control measures.
The pest status of tomato fruit blotch virus in the Netherlands is officially declared as: Absent, intercepted only.
Sources
NPPO of the Netherlands (2022-07).
Nakasu EY, Nagata T, Inoue-Nagata AK (2022) First report of tomato fruit blotch virus infecting tomatoes in Brazil. Plant Disease. Early view https://doi.org/10.1094/PDIS-07-21-1392-PDN