November 27, 2014
Growcom welcomes the announcement by the Queensland Agriculture Minister John McVeigh that Cucumber Green Mottle Mosaic virus (CGMMV) has been declared as a plant pest under the Plant Protection Act 1989.
CGMMV, also commonly referred to as melon mosaic virus, has been found in melons and pumpkins in the Northern Territory.
The announcement means the whole of Queensland is now a pest quarantine area and restrictions exist regarding the movement of cucurbit plants, fruit and seeds, soil, machinery and tools into the state unless they are accompanied by a Plant Health Certificate. The certificate certifies that the products have been inspected and are from an area free from CGMMV.
Queensland’s surveillance for the virus of commercial production areas of all cucurbit crops (including cucumber, melon, pumpkin, squash, zucchini, bitter gourd and bottle gourd) started yesterday, although cucurbits have been monitored at the Brisbane Markets since September. The Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry has also supplied three specialist staff to assist the Northern Territory.
Growcom Chief Advocate Rachel Mackenzie said that the virus had not been found in Queensland but it was important that growers abide by the quarantine rules since prevention was better than cure. There was no definitive evidence where the virus originated.
“This pest is very easily transmitted on machinery and transporting materials. We strongly urge all growers to be extra vigilant if they have properties in the Northern Territory,” Ms Mackenzie said.
“The best way to protect your crop is to utilise good on-farm biosecurity practices such as:
- Monitoring plant materials, water, animals, feed and fertiliser that enter the property.
- Managing people, vehicles and equipment, which pose a high biosecurity risk.
- Regularly cleaning and disinfecting all storage containers, tools and equipment, and storing these away from potential contaminants. The regular use of a suitable disinfectant (such as bleach) is important and most effective when applied to a visually clean surface. Make sure surfaces to be disinfected are free from soil, manure, plant and animal residues.
- Report any unusual symptoms to the Queensland Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry.
“Infected plants can have a bleached appearance, leaves with mosaic-like mottling and possible stunting. Affected plants may also wilt and then runners or the whole plant may die prematurely. Symptoms on fruit can include fruit abortion, yellowing, breakdown of the flesh, and possibly a dirty red discolouration. Infection may also cause fruit malformation.”
For further information or to obtain a Plant Health Certificate, please contact Christine Horlock, A/Operations Manager PBΠ Senior Plant Health Scientist QDAFF on 07 3255 4387, fax 07 3844 4529 or mobile 0428 716 665 or email christine.horlock@daff.qld.gov.au
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