HLB insect vector detected in Tucumán

Argentina's National Agrifood Health and Quality Service (SENASA) confirmed the presence of the insect Diaphorina citri, vector of the incurable huanglongbing disease (HLB), in a citrus farm in Tucumán.

 

 

 

This finding, the first in a plantation in the region, has generated concern in the citrus sector, already affected by a crisis in the export of fresh and industrial lemons.

 

 

 

SENASA has reinforced controls to avoid the spread of HLB and is coordinating preventive actions with an emergency committee.

 

 

 

Although Tucumán is still free of the disease, a 35% drop in exports is expected.

 

 

 

Pablo Padilla, president of the NOA Citrus Association, urges a consensus on strategies to face the crisis and avoid further losses in the sector.