Verticillium wilt is causing increasing damage to European agriculture, especially in tree hosts such as olive and stone fruits, and in tree nurseries. Presently, efficient and environmentally sound strategies to manage verticillium wilt in trees are not available. This proposal aims to provide essential elements for such strategies. The research deals with three strongly interrelated areas: (1) pathogen variability, (2) host resistance, (3) detection and risk assessment. Using molecular techniques, a major step forward will be taken in all three areas. In addition existing methods will be evaluated and standardized. At present, the methods for detection and risk assessment often are suboptimal, and within EU different methods exist. Another major aim of this proposal is therefore to harmonize methods in all research areas by intensively exchanging information.
Last updated 17/01/2003