Paraná intensifies the fight against citrus greening

Between May 12 and 16, the Paraná Agricultural Defense Agency (Adapar) will conduct a task force in the regions of Cornélio Procópio and Londrina, focusing on the prevention and control of greening, or HLB (Huanglongbing), one of the most destructive diseases in citrus farming. The action is part of Operation BIG Citrus, which includes inspections, eradication of diseased plants and guidance for producers.

With a strong presence in the North of the state, Paraná's citrus industry generated around R$985 million in 2023, according to data from Deral. Cornélio Procópio and Londrina alone accounted for almost R$100 million in Gross Production Value (VBP). Given this scenario, controlling greening is considered essential to protect the regional economy.

During the operation, citrus plants showing symptoms of the disease and up to eight years old must be cut down. In areas surrounding the outbreaks, insect vector management will be required. The disease, caused by the bacterium Candidatus Liberibacter spp, is transmitted by the Asian psyllid and has no cure. Therefore, control must be preventive, based on the use of certified seedlings and the elimination of outbreaks.

As a biological alternative, the parasitoid has been used tamarixia radiata, a small wasp that helps reduce psyllid populations. The technique is mainly applied in regions with resistance to insecticides or where there are abandoned orchards.

Since 2023, Paraná has been in a state of phytosanitary emergency due to greening. The mobilization is part of a national strategy, initiated in 2021, which has already resulted in the eradication of more than 1,5 million host plants in the state.