First report of citrus yellow vein clearing virus in Italy
The NPPO of Italy recently informed the EPPO Secretariat of the first finding of citrus yellow vein clearing virus (Potexvirus citriflavivenae, CYVCV, EPPO Alert list) on its territory, in the Campania region.
In May 2024, symptoms of leaf vein clearing were observed on lemon (Citrus x limon) trees in a private garden located in the municipality of Palma Campania (province of Napoli). Seven plants were sampled (6 symptomatic lemon trees and 1 asymptomatic sweet orange tree, Citrus x aurantium var. sinensis) and tested by RT-PCR. CYVCV was detected in all tested plants. A BLAST analysis of the sequence obtained from a lemon plant confirmed the virus identity. An express pest risk analysis was conducted and supported the implementation of phytosanitary measures, including intensified surveys in the lemon-growing areas of the region.
The pest status of citrus yellow vein clearing virus in Italy is officially declared as: Transient, actionable, under surveillance.
Sources
NPPO of Italy (2024-07).