What is it all about?

This investment is working to arm the citrus industry with appropriate tools and knowledge to protect Australian citrus from diseases that threaten industry sustainability.

Detecting graft-transmissible pathogens can be difficult because field symptoms may be confused with other disorders and the pathogen may be present below detectable levels or unevenly distributed within the tree. It is important that diagnostic tests are specific to the target organism, sensitive, and efficient in terms of time and cost.

Previous Hort Innovation projects enhanced Australia’s capability to detect and manage major pathogen threats, such as huanglongbing (HLB), and built an experienced citrus biosecurity team. However, gaps in knowledge remain and diagnostic technologies continue to evolve. 

The research team will work to:

• Improve detection of graft-transmissible citrus pathogens
• Improve understanding of the threat posed by graft
• Enhance capability to respond to existing and newly emerging pathogens.