Notification on the detection of Clavibacter michiganensis subsp. nebraskensis, Goss’ Wilt on maize, in the Republic of South Africa

Publication Date

Tue, 14 Jan 2025, 13:35

Last Updated

Jan. 14, 2025, 1:35 p.m.

Report Number

ZAF-60/1

Country

South Africa

Pest Id

Clavibacter michiganensis subsp. nebraskensis - (CORBNE)

Report Status

Final

Hosts

Clavibacter michiganensis subsp. nebraskensis was detected in maize farms in the notified areas.

Pest Status (ISPM 8 - 2021)

• Present: not widely distributed and under official control

Geographical Distribution

The NPPOZA was notified about the detection of Clavibacter michiganensis subsp. nebraskensis from various localities in South Africa. Samples were collected from maize farms in Parys (Free State), Fochville & Lichtenburg (North-West) and Carletonville (Gauteng) where initial testing was carried out using molecular techniques (PCR and sequencing). The NPPOZA officials also collected samples from farms in the Potchefstroom area, where the presence of Clavibacter michiganensis subsp. nebraskensis was confirmed through molecular techniques (PCR and sequencing). The presence of the bacterium was also reported in the Eastern Cape, through visual inspection on samples.

Summary

Clavibacter michiganensis subsp. nebraskensis was detected in the four (4) provinces in South Africa, namely the Free State, North-West, Gauteng and Eastern Cape. The official samples were collected after random surveys in collaboration with the research institutions and government in the reported areas. The pest was positively identified by molecular techniques (PCR and sequencing). Surveys in other parts of the country are conducted where host plants are produced, and no further detections have occurred so far. Phytosanitary measures are being implemented in the affected farms.

Danger

Potential spread or establishment of Clavibacter michiganensis subsp. nebraskensis from infested areas through host material to other provinces may negatively affect domestic and international trade and export potential of relevant host commodities. The Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development (DALRRD) is continuing with research to understand the epidemiology and management of the pest to support local maize producers while conducting delimiting surveys to determine the extent of the spread of the disease.

Contact for info

Mr Thizwilondi Munzhelele Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development Private Bag x14 Gezina 0031

Report files

Notification on the detection of Clavibacter michiganensis subsp. nebraskensis, Goss’ Wilt on maize, in the Republic of South Africa

Website

Issue keywords

Delimiting survey Phytosanitary Measures Risk Management

Commodity keywords

Maize or corn