In a context of growing urgency in the fight against Huanglongbing (HLB), a disease that severely affects citrus crops globally, an international webinar was held on December 6 centered on the development and implementation of innovative tools and strategies for the early detection of this devastating disease.

This webinar, titled "Early Detection of Huanglongbing Citrus Greening: Tools and Strategies for Diagnosis," was organized by FONTAGRO in collaboration with the National Institute of Agricultural Technology (INTA) of Argentina, the Ministry of Economy and the Secretariat of Agriculture and Fisheries of Argentina, the Agricultural Innovation Institute (IDIAP) of Panama, the Colombian Corporation of Agricultural Research (AGROSAVIA), the National Institute of Agricultural Research (INIA) of Uruguay, the National Institute of Forest, Agricultural and Livestock Research (INIFAP) of Mexico, Fundecitrus of Brazil, CONICET of Argentina, the GIGA laboratory of Argentina, the Valencian Institute of Agricultural Research (IVIA) of Spain, and the César Milstein Institute of Science and Technology in Argentina.

The event highlighted the crucial importance of early diagnosis in mitigating the impact of HLB on citrus production in the region. Experts in citrus science and biotechnology discussed the use of advanced technologies, such as multiplex PCR and CRISPR technology, which have shown significant improvements in the sensitivity and specificity of detecting bacteria associated with HLB.

During the event, a new portable kit for the early diagnosis of Huanglongbing was presented, promising to facilitate rapid disease identification for farmers and, consequently, the implementation of effective control measures. The importance of DNA extraction and rigorous contamination control in diagnostics were key points in the discussions.

Additionally, solutions to the challenges facing early detection of HLB were explored, such as coinfections and the predominance of Asian strains of Liberibacter. The consensus among researchers is that international collaboration and continuous innovation are essential to combat this threat that jeopardizes global citrus cultivation.

The event concluded with a call to authorities, researchers, and farmers to unite in a collective effort to implement these innovations and thus protect citrus crops, ensuring sustainability and food security in the future.

To watch the recording of this webinar, visit:

https://www.youtube.com/live/k2Inmo2q_hY?si=dBv9bDAkUYd2RA_W