1Northern Research and Development, MIGAL Institute, Qiryat Shemona, Israel
2Extension Service, Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, Bayit Dagan, Israel
3Tel-Hai Academic College, Upper Galilee, Qiryat Shemona, Israel
*Corresponding author e-mails: Rakefet Sharon (rakefetsh@gmail.com; rakefets@migal.org.il)
Online published on 5 March, 2025.
This study confirms Cacopsylla bidensas the vector of ‘Candidatus Phytoplasma pyri’, associated with pear decline in northern Israel. Transmission trials showed that C. bidens can transmit the phytoplasma to pear trees, with higher success observed in autumn due to increased phytoplasma prevalence in psyllids. Findings emphasize the vector’s critical role in the pear decline epidemiology and the importance of management strategies to control its spread.
Phytoplasma, Epidemiology, Infectious disease, Molecular detection
