Spread of Xylella fastidiosa

2.10.2019

Question for written answer E-003067-19
to the Commission
Rule 138
Susanna Ceccardi (ID)

Xylella fastidiosa is a bacterium that lives and reproduces in the xylem sap of its host plant, which it can seriously affect.

This bacterium has caused serious agricultural damage and its spread threatens the survival of many types of plant and the livelihoods of the farmers that tend to them.

In December 2018, the bacterium was detected for the first time in Tuscany — in the municipality of Monte Argentario to be precise.

Given how dangerous this plant pathogen is, and how close Tuscany is to the infected areas of Apulia, France and Corsica (under 4 hours by ferry from Livorno) the bacterium is a potential threat to crops grown in Tuscany, especially olives, and were it to spread this would have devastating effects on the ground and for the regional economy.

What actions are being planned to tackle the spread of this invasive bacterium?

What can be done to fund measures to prevent the spread of this parasite in Tuscany and ensure its biological control?