Citrus greening, also known as Huanglongbing, represents a formidable challenge to citrus cultivation, leading to the death of infected trees within a few years without a known cure. This disease, spread by the Asian citrus psyllid, results in fruits that are unsuitable for sale, except as juice, due to their poor colour, asymmetrical shape, and bitter taste. Presently, it affects areas in Georgia, Florida, Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and parts of Alabama, California, Louisiana, South Carolina, and Texas. The disease has notably decreased citrus output globally, with Florida witnessing an 80 percent reduction from its previous highs by 2023.
In response, Silvec Biologics, an agtech firm from Maryland, has been developing an RNA-based solution to combat citrus greening. This product, which has progressed to the Full Science Review Phase of the EPA Pesticide Regulation Improvement Act registration process, employs a viral vector to deliver a natural antimicrobial peptide derived from spinach, showing promise in field trials for reducing yield losses without altering the genetic makeup of the citrus trees or fruit. This approach, a collaboration with Southern Gardens Citrus, the University of Florida, and Texas A&M AgriLife Research, marks a significant step forward in the fight against citrus greening.
Support from the Citrus Research and Development Foundation and the anticipation of commercialization highlight the industry's commitment to addressing citrus greening. With the USDA's approval for use in Florida and the ongoing EPA review process, there is optimism for the potential of this innovative technology to mitigate the disease's impact on citrus production.
Source: agdaily.com