Senasa destroys 51 myrtle plants to prevent citrus greening.

The Argentine National Service for Agrifood Health and Quality (Senasa) seized and destroyed 51 specimens of Murraya paniculataA plant known as myrtle, part of a prevention campaign against huanglongbing (HLB). The operation took place at an establishment in the province of Buenos Aires.

The intervention began with the monitoring of regulated products on digital platforms. Senasa detected the offer of plants in an irregular situation. Subsequently, it coordinated a physical inspection at the site. During the inspection, agents confirmed the presence of the specimens and carried out their decommissioning and destruction.

The production, planting, marketing and transportation of Murraya paniculata They are banned throughout Argentina. According to Senasa, the species hosts HLB and appears as a preferred plant for the insect vector of the disease. diaphorina citri.

The agency considers HLB the most devastating disease affecting citrus farming worldwide. The disease represents a direct threat to Argentine citrus production.

The production and transport of myrtle violate Resolutions 875/2020 and 64/2026. Senasa states that these restrictions protect the country's phytosanitary status and help preserve the productive capacity of the national citrus sector.

The agency advises producers, traders, and the public to verify the origin and authorization of plant species before reproduction or sale.