OM A121

Over the last few years, olive trees (Olea europaea) have seriously been threatened by the bacterium Xylella fastidiosa, a devastating quarantine organism which affects about than 380 host plants worldwide including crop, ornamental, forestry and natural vegetation species. In 2013, the first outbreak of X. fastidiosa was reported in Puglia (Italy). It was a serious shock for the European and Mediterranean regions since it was associated with the olive quick decline syndrome (OQDS); furthermore, it was reported to infect more than 28 plant species (except grapevine and citrus), and to be rapidly vector-transmitted by the spittlebug Philaenus spumarius. After the finding in Italy of the subspecies pauca strain CoDiRO, several interceptions of Xylella occurred in Europe and new outbreaks of different subspecies of the pathogen were reported in France (2015), Germany (2015) and Spain (2016). Thanks to the support of CIHEAM, FAO, IPPC and IOC for the organization of two dedicated international workshops, this book represents a unique opportunity for the main national and international stakeholders to find the most updated information on X. fastidiosa and its vectors, with a focus on the latest experience and knowledge acquired in Europe. It includes short notes on the breakthrough of research, the current legislation and other initiatives at EU, Mediterranean and worldwide level on the pathogen, its vector(s), host plant species, surveillance, detection and control measures. In addition, a complete list of scientific publications of the last 10 years is also provided. The information and experiences reported in this book constitute a basis to build national phytosanitary capacity, awareness-raising and advocacy campaigns to combat X. fastidiosa.