EFSA Releases Opinion on Citrus Black Spot Fungus

A scientific opinion on Guignardia citricarpa Kiely, the fungus that causes the black spot (CBS) disease has been published by the European Food Safety Authority’s (EFSA) Plant Health Panel (PLH). The European Commission asked EFSA for scientific advice on CBS following a request by South Africa to review current EU phytosanitary regulations relating to the export of citrus fruit from South Africa to the EU.

South Africa suggested that current EU phytosanitary measures regarding the import of fresh citrus fruit from the country be revised since citrus-growing areas of Europe do not have a climate suitable for the CBS disease to take hold. However, EFSA concluded that the climatic conditions would not be a barrier to CBS fungus establishing itself in European citrus growing areas. The Food Safety Authority pointed out that the assessment of climatic suitability provided by South Africa was based on the use of specialized software which has many limitations.

The CSB-causing fungus is currently not present in Europe. According to the PHL Panel, existing control measures in the continent are not fully effective in eliminating the likelihood of the introduction of the disease from South Africa. The Panel also noted that G. citricarpa can easily establish itself in Europe as there are many susceptible citrus host plants.

EFSA’s opinion paper is available for download at http://www.efsa.europa.eu/EFSA/efsa_locale-1178620753812_1211902274417.htm