Pacific Pests, Pathogens and Weeds

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Summary

• Narrow distribution. Known only from several provinces of Papua New Guinea and Maleai island (Shortland Islands), Solomon Islands. Possibly a phytoplasma disease. Same phytoplasma likely cause of Bogia coconut syndrome in Madang Province, Papua New Guinea. Only bananas and coconuts are hosts.
• Damage: leaves yellow slowly, collapse and plants die, with dark streaks and rots internally. Concern that disease will spread among bananas, and also spread to coconuts.
• Spread unknown, but phytoplasmas found in several insects.
• Biosecurity: regulate movement of bananas from Maleai Island.
• Cultural control: cut up and bury or burn plants (dig out all suckers) as soon as symptoms seen. Best to spray with insecticide first.
• Chemical control: recommendations in Pacific island countries include: i) kerosene for bananas for home; ii) dimethoate, diazinon or acephate (but these are banned, restricted or under review) for bananas grown commercially; alternatively, use synthetic pyrethroids.