Western Australia
September 30, 2016
Horticulture producers in Western Australia are reminded to remain vigilant and implement strict farm biosecurity practices, after the cucurbit disease Cucumber green mottle mosaic virus (CGMMV) was confirmed near Kununurra.
The detection of CGMMV on a single property follows nine other confirmed detections of the disease in cucurbit crops at Geraldton, Carnarvon and Perth, and in an endemic weed species at Carnarvon.
CGMMV affects watermelon, cucumber, melons, zucchini, pumpkin, squash and gourds, causing internal and external damage resulting in significant production losses.
The Department of Agriculture and Food has been working closely with industry throughout Western Australia, undertaking surveillance and providing support and advice.
Chief Plant Biosecurity officer John van Schagen said the detection was made by the department as part of its surveillance program, which has also included Broome, Geraldton, Carnarvon and Perth.
Mr van Schagen said it was important for cucurbit growers and associated businesses to employ a high standard of biosecurity practices to control and manage the disease.
“It is vital that strict biosecurity measures are implemented and that any suspect sightings of this notifiable disease are reported to the department immediately,” he said.
Growers should only use seeds and seedlings that are tested for CGMMV so as to reduce the chance of introducing the disease onto their property.
A suggested Farm Biosecurity Checklist and more information is available from the department’s website and the vegetablesWA website.
Additional biosecurity advice can be sought by telephoning the department on +61 8 9956 8555 or vegetablesWA on +61 8 9481 0834
Suspected CGMMV observations should be reported to the department’s Pest and Disease Information Service by freecall 1800 084 881 or emailing info@agric.wa.gov.au
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