Improving knowledge of Xylella fastidiosa vector ecology: modelling vector occurrence and abundance in the wider landscape in Scotland

Malaise Trap Samples
Xylella fastidiosa is a bacterial plant pathogen that can cause disease in a broad range of hosts. There are currently major Xylella outbreaks in Southern France, including Corsica, Italy, mainland Spain and the Balearic Islands. Although Xylella has so far not been detected in Scotland (or UK), an outbreak would have serious impacts on any host plant-related activities/businesses and the wider environment. To understand the risk posed to Scotland’s plants from Xylella, and to be adequately prepared if it is detected, there are important knowledge gaps that must be addressed. This project will build on the results of the previous PHC Xylella projects (PHC2018 / 04 /05 / 06) to further refine Scottish Government’s contingency and preparedness measures for the possible arrival of Xylella fastidiosa.

Impact: Deliver recommendations as to the suitability of vector trapping methods and eradication strategies, if deployed in Scotland.
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Institution: University of Stirling
Position:
Institution: University of Stirling
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Institution: University of Stirling
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Institution: Forest Research
Position:
Institution: Forest Research
Position:
Institution: Forest Research
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Institution: Centre for Ecology and Hydrology
Position:
Institution: Centre for Ecology and Hydrology
Position:
Institution: SASA
Position:
Institution: SASA
Position:
Institution: University of Stirling