Xf – POnTE research demonstrated that Xf is the causal agent of the Olive Quick Decline Syndrome in Southern Italy and provided evidence on molecular mechanisms characterizing the response of olive cultivars to infections, profiling those that might be resistant/tolerant to Xf. This finding enabled the repeal of the prohibition of planting new olive trees in the infected area in Apulia, giving new hope to the olive industry in the area. First essential information on vectors, a wide range of strategies for their control and the pattern of the disease spreading on olive trees, were gathered. Scientists proved the robustness of the disease airborne early detection even before the symptoms became visible, thanks to sophisticated hyperspectral cameras. Epidemiological and economic models were developed to indicate which areas in Europe are under greater threat from Xf, with an estimate of the economic losses for growers and consumers. New innovative approaches were tested to propose sustainable and environmentally friendly strategies for pathogen control in olive.
CaLsol – The activities developed in PonTE allowed to map the geographical distribution of the CaLsol variants in Europe, in the meanwhile finding for the very first time the pathogen on new psyllid vectors as well as on hosts that were not known could be infected (i.e. parsley, fennel, chervil, parsnip and other weeds).
Novel diagnostic assays were designed to rapidly identify important psyllid vectors. These will be important tools in the prevention and detection of possible introductions in the EU of psyllids such as Bactericera cockerelli. A remote-controlled robot was developed to inspect the presence of CaLsol in horticultural crops by remote sensing devices. Researchers disseminated to a wide audience of stakeholders the recourse to integrated pest management approaches, including mechanical tools such as nets, “natural” insecticide products (e.g. kaolin) and technologies such as drip irrigation.
Forestry pathogens – Researchers detected Hf on ahs for the first time in Serbia, and on different non-ash species (i.e. Phillyrea and Chionanthus). The role of ash pericarps, seeds or embryos as a source for the spread of the disease was investigated. Hot-water treatment as a control measure for Hf eradication in seeds was successfully tested. Seeking for tolerant trees, asymptomatic ash seedlings and trees were identified. Phytophthora species damaging conifers and other forest tree species have been identified associated with specific tree declines in Europe. It was shown by these studies that Southeast Asia is the centre of origin of highly invasive wide-host-range Phytophthora species which cause currently devastating forest epidemics in Europe and North America.
POnTE has invested a considerable effort to disseminate the most relevant achievements to the entire community, non-experts, farmers, stakeholders, and the general public, affected or threatened by the spread of the diseases caused by the target pathogens. This was a small yet significant first step to shorten the gap between science and final users and contributed to strengthen the possible exploitation of Project results.
