Outbreak of Phytoplasma mali (apple proliferation) in Germany
The NPPO of Germany recently informed the EPPO Secretariat of an outbreak of Phytoplasma mali (Apple proliferation phytoplasma – EPPO A2 list) in Sachsen. In July 2004, shoots of 24 trees of Malus spp. growing in an experimental field, and of 5 trees in a field used for scion production showed symptoms of apple proliferation. PCR testing revealed the presence of P. mali. The infected trees were destroyed. Movement of trees from the experimental field has been prohibited, and testing of scions for P. mali from the scion production field has been rendered compulsory before any movement. Since infection has been confirmed, Malus fields concerned have been inspected every two weeks and further tested to assess the level of infection.
The pest status of Phytoplasma mali in Germany is officially declared as follows: Transient: actionable, under eradication.
Sources
NPPO of Germany, 2005-12.