Exotic and Emergent Citrus Viruses Relevant to the Mediterranean Region

Abstract

Citrus production in the Mediterranean area is of considerable importance, in both cultural and economic terms, and the viability of the industry greatly depends on proper phytosanitary management. In this review, we focus on exotic and emerging dangerous citrus viruses that have still not been reported in the countries of the Mediterranean area, that are not yet regulated or that are restricted to certain small areas. We also discuss the contribution that old and new technologies may offer for valuable surveys aimed at promoting the adoption and sharing of better control measures and the production of pathogen-tested citrus trees and rootstocks.

Keywords

• surveillance
• detection
• high throughput sequencing
• EPPO quarantine regulation
• diagnosis
• plant disease control