Flavescenza dorata

Flavescence dorée (FD) is a very dangerous epidemic disease that affects grapevines.

The causative agent is a parasitic microorganism, called phytoplasma, transmitted by the leafhopper Scaphoideus titanus or by humans through the propagation of infected vegetative material.

The results of the infection are generally evident in July, but in hot and dry years they are already present in mid-June.

In early manifestations, the inflorescences or bunches dry up and fall, the infected shoots appear rubbery in consistency, do not lignify and tend to bend downwards.

In early manifestations, the inflorescences or bunches dry up and fall, the infected shoots appear rubbery in consistency, do not lignify and tend to bend downwards.

Following the serious losses caused, FD is included in the A2 list of the EPPO (European and Mediterranean Plant Protection Organization) and therefore subject to mandatory control to contain its spread.

* Patent licenses WO 00/28082, WO 01/34790, WO 01/77317, WO 02/24902, WO 01/34838 ** Industrial invention patent no. 0001425753 dated 09.11.2016