First citrus canker detection in Alabama

In a residential area of Baldwin County, Alabama, citrus canker has been detected. The area is bordered by Florida and the Gulf of Mexico. Federal and state plant health officials confirmed the identification of the disease from samples collected by the Alabama Department of Agriculture and Industries’ (ADAI) routine citrus survey.

It is the first detection of citrus canker in the state despite biannual surveys conducted by ADAI plant inspection staff. A fruit infected with the disease is safe to eat but has reduced marketability as fresh fruit. The bacteria remain viable on plant surfaces for several months.

ADAI and U.S. Department of Agriculture Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service officials have devised a plan of action. Together they will be conducting a delimiting survey to determine the extent that the pathogen may have spread.

Source: citrusindustry.net

Photo source: Dreamstime.com

Source: Fresh Plaza

Share