Citrus Black Spot disease caught on orange shipped to Philadelphia
U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers noticed black lesions on the orange and USDA confirmed them to be Citrus Black Spot disease, an exotic citrus disease caused by fungus that occurs in subtropical regions of the world.
The disease, most common in lemons and Valencia oranges, can significantly impact a crop yield making them unsuitable for market.
"Citrus Black Spot is a significant interception for CBP as the disease is a top-tier plant disease threat for U.S. crop industries," said Susan Stranieri, CBP Port Director for the Area Port of Philadelphia.
"CBP agriculture specialists take their mission to protect America's agriculture very seriously."
Officials say five black lesions were discovered on an orange that a man brought with him on a flight from Doha, Qatar of July 16. CBP provided specimens to a USDA plant pathologist who confirmed the lesions as the fungus that causes Citrus Black Spot.
The disease is present in Florida, say officials, where 70 percent of U.S. oranges are produced.
Source: nj.com
