Citrus canker, a federal and state regulated plant disease, has been detected in Mobile County, Alabama. As required by federal law, the Alabama Department of Agriculture and Industries (ADAI) will establish a citrus canker quarantine for the county.
The Auburn University Plant Pathology Lab confirmed the first detection from foliage and fruit samples collected during ADAI’s routine citrus survey. The positive tree and two additional symptomatic trees within the same orchard have been removed. ADAI is working closely with the orchard owner to identify and destroy any additional symptomatic trees on-site to prevent further spread.
Citrus canker is a highly contagious bacterial disease of citrus, caused by Xanthomonas citri subsp. citri, and spreads primarily through wind-driven rain, flooding, overhead irrigation and the human movement of infected plant material or contaminated tools and equipment. Learn more about the disease from the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences Citrus Research and Education Center.
While not harmful to humans, citrus canker significantly affects the health and productivity of citrus trees, often causing premature leaf and fruit drop. Infected fruit is safe to eat but loses marketability as fresh produce. The bacteria can remain viable on plant surfaces for several months and thrives in areas with high rainfall and warm temperatures. Grapefruit and limes are among the most susceptible citrus.
“It’s important for everyone, from commercial growers to homeowners with backyard citrus trees, to stay vigilant,” said ADAI Plant Regulatory Official Brittaney Allen. “Citrus canker spreads easily through contaminated tools, equipment or even plant material. By being aware and taking preventative measures, we can help protect Alabama’s citrus industry.”
ADAI’s Plant Protection Division will continue to monitor the area and provide updates as needed.
More information about the disease and quarantine is available from Christel Stewart by email at Christel.Harden@agi.alabama.gov or by phone at 334-240-7225.
Source: ADAI
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