Finding of tomato ringspot virus in the Netherlands
In the Netherlands, tomato ringspot virus (Nepovirus, ToRSV – EPPO A2 List) was first found in 2018 in one sample of Iris germanica cv. Swahili (EPPO RS 2018/228). In March 2023, it was reported again by an operator in Phlox stolonifera in Aalsmeer. ToRSV was detected in 11 asymptomatic plants for planting of P. stolonifera. All infected plants of the lot were destroyed. The possible source of the infection is probably related to vegetative propagation of the plants since the vectors (nematode species within the Xiphinema americanum complex) are absent from the Netherlands (based on specific surveys). As this is the second finding on symptomless plants in the Netherlands, it is presumed that ToRSV has a wider distribution than is currently known, both in terms of geographic distribution and host plants.
In the event of future findings, measures will be taken, and infected lots will be destroyed. Following a finding the Netherlands will no longer test all other (potential) host plants at a company.
The pest status of tomato ringspot virus in the Netherlands is officially declared as: Present, findings in species of Iris germanica and Phlox stolonifera ornamental plants for planting.
Sources
NPPO of the Netherlands (2023-04, 2023-06).