So far BCTV has been detected in North America, where coused losses in quality and quantity of yields. In Europe is present only in Mediterranean region (Italy, Cyprus, Turkey). Virus needs vectors to spread. Two insects species are responsible for the transmission of BCTV. C. tenellus i C. opacipensis are common in the current area of virus distribution. The climate in Central and North Europe reduce occurence of vectors and therefore expansion of BCTV. In couse of that and low posibility of mechanial transmission the likelihood of BCTV spread in PRA area is low. However climate changes can improve condtions for C. tenellus or C. opacipensis. In such a case, the cultivated (e.g potatoe, sugarbeet) and also non-cultivated plants would be endangered.
The protection against viruses is based on systematic monitoring of imported plant material. All infected plants and vectors (on plants/fruits) need to be remove and destroy. It will ensure adequate protection against virus development in PRA area.
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