US (ID): More zebra chip bacteria found
The first samples were found on June 19th. Erik Wenninger, an entomologist with the University of Idaho’s Kimberly center, urged growers not to be unduly alarmed.
"We don’t want people to panic," he said. "We definitely want people to be aware of this issue. They should stay vigilant and keep a close eye on what is going on in their fields."
So far the adult psyllids that could carry the necessary liberibacter have only been found in three fields, out of 15 being monitored statewide.
Wenninger said psyllids have been in Idaho for decades. However, it wasn’t until late in the 2011 growing season that the bacterium for zebra chip was found in low levels in Idaho, Oregon and Washington.
Recently the area has experienced hot, dry weather which may help to stave off the disease.
"Both the psyllids and the bacterium tend to not do well with high temperatures," said Wennninger.
Source: magicvalley.com
