First record of sweet potato chlorotic stunt virus in the Netherlands
The NPPO of the Netherlands recently informed the EPPO Secretariat of the first finding of sweet potato chlorotic stunt virus (Crinivirus, SPCSV - EU Annexes) in sweet potato (Ipomoea batatas) plants on its territory. SPCSV was found in September 2022 in two open fields in Noord-Brabant province (11.83 and 4.72 ha) and one in Limburg province (0.5 ha). The official survey was part of the Euphresco project ‘Phytosanitary risks of newly introduced crops’ (PRONC). Tracing back investigations to the origin of the finding showed that the sweet potato slips used for planting originated from a company in another EU Member State. Sweet potato is a new crop in the Netherlands. During the survey, plants with and without virus symptoms were sampled and tested. SPCSV was identified in several plants with virus-like symptoms (e.g. vein banding, discoloration, rings, dots). Additionally, in several of these symptomatic plants a second, non-EU listed, virus was identified: sweet potato virus G (Potyvirus, SPVG00). The mixed infection may have increased the severity of the observed symptoms.
Official phytosanitary measures have been taken. The companies have to report to the NPPO when all tubers of the Ipomoea batatas plants have been harvested and the total quantity thereof. All infected lots should be stored in a traceable manner, separately from other harvested lots. Only sales for consumption/industry are allowed, otherwise the lots have to be destroyed. The companies should report when the infected lots are sold or destroyed. The lots must be sold/destroyed before 31 March 2023.
The pest status of sweet potato chlorotic stunt virus in the Netherlands is officially declared as: Transient, actionable, under eradication.
Sources
NPPO of the Netherlands (2022-10). https://english.nvwa.nl/topics/pest-reporting/pest-reports