Cucumber Green Mottle Mosaic Virus (CGMMV) has been detected on a cucumber on a farm near Geraldton in Western Australia.
One adjoining farm has also reported symptoms of the virus in its cucumber crop.
Both farms only grow cucumbers.
The Department of Agriculture and Fisheries, Western Australia (DAFWA) will not be taking any regulatory action but it is working with the growers to determine the extent of the outbreak and conduct trace back investigations.
The growers have been provided with technical advice, including on-farm biosecurity measures.
CGMMV affects cucurbit species, including watermelon, melon, cucumber, pumpkin, squash and gourds.
The virus is easily transmitted and has long viability in plant debris, in soil or on greenhouse or equipment surfaces.
The damage it causes to the host plant and fruit can be extensive, resulting in substantial yield losses.
Growers are asked to be vigilant in their on-farm biosecurity practices and to send any suspect plants to their state biosecurity agency for identification.
A workshop to discuss the management of CGMMV, and in particular farm biosecurity measures will be held on today, Wednesday July 27, at DAFWA’s Geraldton office.
- For more information on the workshop contact Carlene Bryant on (08) 9956 8555.
- If you suspect your crop is affected by CGMMV, call the Exotic Plant Pest Hotline on 1800 084 881. This number goes directly to your state or territory’s department of agriculture or primary industries.
