Citrus greening — A national problem

The citrus industry in India is an important fruit industry providing livelihood to many fruit growers. Citrus greening is one of the most severe diseases of citrus worldwide and it is evident that this disease emerged as a serious threat to citrus production in all the citrus growing countries including India. The disease is due to bacterium like organism (BLO) which is transmitted by psyllid vectors. It is the most devastating of all citrus diseases and there is no cure for the infected trees which decline and die within a few years. Eradication may be possible if detected early and in absence of psyllid vectors. However, due to its long taking and symptoms mimicry of other pathogen and non pathogenic citrus abnormalities, the probability of successful eradication is low. There is no place in the world where citrus greening occurs that is under completely successful management. Therefore, management of this malady require integrated approaches to formulate suitable strategies.