All Citrus cultivars tested so far are susceptible to Huanglongbing (HLB), but they are not equally susceptible. Some are able to grow and produce a fairly normal crop, despite supporting high populations of the HLB-associated bacterial pathogen and developing leaf symptoms. Dr. Ed Stover, a Research Horticulturist at the USDA in Fort Pierce, FL, is collaborating with scientists on developing HLB-tolerant citrus.

How are new varieties developed? Download the Research Snapshot to learn more.

 

About Research Snapshots

We have developed short, descriptions of research projects that aim to help in the fight against HLB. These projects include traditional breeding and genetic engineering to create resistant citrus varieties, psyllid modification, using other organisms to deliver HLB-resistance genes, and early detection of the bacterium in trees.