Xylella: host plant list updated

EFSA has updated its database of plants that are reported to be hosts for the plant pathogen Xylella fastidiosa, which has been present in Europe since October 2013.

The updated list consists of 359 plant species – both naturally and experimentally infected hosts – from 204 genera and 75 botanical families. Forty-four new species, two new hybrids, 15 new genera and five new families are included. The majority of the new species (70%) were identified in southern Italy (Apulia), Corsica and southern France (Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region).

The database was compiled using an extensive literature search in order to capture all scientific developments published on the topic since the original list was published in April 2015. Further updates will be published regularly on the EFSA website. The database supports risk managers in carrying out surveillance and other phytosanitary measures, such as inspections of plants for planting.

• Update of a database of host plants of Xylella fastidiosa: 20 November 2015