Peru is in a state of phytosanitary alert because of the presence of the vector Diaphorina citri (Asian psyllid) near the Peruvian border with neighbouring countries, such as Ecuador, as this vector spreads HLB bacteria (Huanlongbing or Citrus Greening). Contrary to what was stated yesterday by other media sources, the SENASA (National Service of Agrarian Health) confirmed to FreshPlaza that neither the bacterium nor the vector have been detected in Peru and that all preventive measures are in place to prevent any possible propagation.
"There has been a misunderstanding, as Peru and Chile are still the only South American countries which do not have this bacteria. We'd like to stress that neither the HLB nor its vector, Diaphorina citri, have been detected in Peru, and although we are in a situation of phytosanitary alert because of the insect's presence in regions adjacent to our borders, there is no direct threat to our plantations. At present, the SENASA is taking preventive actions for the early detection of the insect," affirms Cecilia Levano, a specialist in agricultural health at SENASA.
It is worth noting that the HLB is a pest that has no effective cure and has been causing severe losses to citrus producers worldwide, with the total loss estimated at more than 60 million trees and up to 100% of the harvest. For this reason, the state of alert and the enforcement of preventive measures against the possible spread of the insect apply to all Peruvian producers of lemons, oranges and mandarins.
While so far there have been no reports or detections of HLB or the insect that spreads the bacterium in Peru, the SENASA, given the importance of the citrus industry for the country, has strengthened its preventive measures on border areas. "Right now we are conducting continuous monitoring in citrus production areas, with special emphasis in northern Peru, at the border with Ecuador. There has also been a strengthening of control checkpoints at the borders and we have organised awareness campaigns for the population by spreading information and giving talks about the pest," states Levano.