Tomato brown rugose fruit virus detected in South Australia

Tomato brown rugose fruit virus (ToBRFV) has been detected in the Northern Adelaide Plains, the first time the disease has been found in South Australia.

The Department of Primary Industries and Regions (PIRSA) is currently responding to a detection of an exotic tomato disease – tomato brown rugose fruit virus (ToBRFV) – at 2 properties in the Northern Adelaide Plains region.

Response and surveillance measures are underway and PIRSA is working closely with the affected businesses with quarantine measures implemented at the properties.

As part of response activities PIRSA is currently investigating the source of the outbreak and determining any potential further spread so that effective mitigation measures can be implemented as quickly as possible.

ToBRFV is an exotic plant disease that affects tomatoes, capsicums and chillies. Listed on the National Priority Plant Pest list, it is a highly contagious plant virus and regarded as a considerable threat to Australia's $5.8 billion vegetable industry due to reduced yield and quality of produce.

Infected plants show symptoms such as mosaic patterns, yellowing and deformities on leaves, while fruits develop brown wrinkled spots, deformations and uneven ripening, reducing their yield and marketability. Different plant varieties can present different symptoms.

ToBRFV has no known effects on human health.

South Australian Chief Plant Health Officer Nick Secomb said biosecurity is everyone's responsibility.

"Growers are urged to look out for signs of tomato brown rugose fruit virus and report anything unusual to ensure early detection," he said.

"PIRSA will continue to update industry on surveillance, testing and contract tracing efforts."

On 24 August 2024, the Queensland Government issued a Movement Control Order (MCO) suspending the movement of tomato seeds, tomato seedlings, and tomato fruit into Queensland from South Australia a precautionary measure to minimise the risk of ToBRFV spreading to Queensland. PIRSA is working with Queensland and will provide further advice as soon as possible.

PIRSA reminds growers that if they notice anything suspicious with their plants and crops to immediately contact the Exotic Plant Pest Hotline on 1800 084 881.

For further information on ToBRFV, see Tomato brown rugose fruit virus.