Xylella fastidiosa in Balearic Islands in Spain – from eradication to containment

Xylella fastidiosa was first detected in Mallorca last year. Follow up surveillance efforts have now also found it in Ibiza. At least two different introductions are assumed, given that the report indicates that both subspecies fastidiosa and multiplex were found – although no details have been provided. Given the distribution of the pathogen, and the fact that the archipelago is an importer rather than exporter of plant material (indicated in report), the management strategy is switching from eradication to containment.