Psa symposium

The 2016 Psa Symposium was held on Monday in Palmerston North and was well attended by industry, researchers, MPI staff and other interested groups—many of whom also stayed on to attend the New Zealand Plant Protection Society Conference which ran 9-11 August.

Keynote speakers were Dr Francesco Spinelli, Associate professor at Bologna University in Italy and Dr Liliana Cano, Associate Professor at the University of Florida. Dr Spinelli presented on what is now known about factors influencing the spread and virulence of Psa within different cultivars; and Dr Cano described the role plant effectors have played in the management of serious diseases in a range of horticultural crops including potatoes, tomatoes, hops and Florida citrus. Progress in breeding for Psa tolerance, possible future Psa control products, advances in the understanding of the genetic basis of resistance to control products and the development of detection techniques including for use in border control were all topics included in the programme. Workshops on Psa resistance and epidemiology also allowed for exchange of ideas on future research needs. Growers invited to Dr Spinelli’s presentation Growers have an opportunity tomorrow (Friday 12 August) to hear Dr Spinelli present at a grower meeting in Te Puke alongside Elaine Gould (Zespri) with an overview of the conference; Joel Vanneste (P&FR) who will give an update on resistance; Phil Elmer (P&FR) will present on BCAs and Andrew Harrison (KVH) who will give a biosecurity update. When: Friday 12 August, 2pm – 4pm Where: Orchard Church, McLoughlin Road, Te Puke