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Jujube disease
Jujube disease, also known as plexiflora, is a severe and invasive plant disorder that affects jujube trees across the globe. It has caused significant damage in various regions, including Hebei’s Yutian and Beijing’s Miyun County in the 1970s and 1980s. In 1995, the outbreak of Korean jujube disease led to an annual infection rate of up to 20–30% in many orchards. Over the years, the disease has become more widespread, with alarming statistics from Hebei Academy of Forestry showing that in areas like Taihang Shanzao, 60–80% of the land was severely affected. Similarly, in Chiping and Quyang counties, over 70% of the trees were impacted, while in Tangxian, the infected tree rate reached 10%. The disease has destroyed tens of thousands of trees, and in some areas, such as Xizhimen and Yuetan near Beijing, the mortality rate among older trees exceeded 30%.
Known locally as "crazy jujube" or "public jujube," this disease significantly alters the growth patterns of the tree. Above-ground symptoms include abnormal bud development, elongated flower stalks, and malformed leaves that may appear yellowed, curled, or even resemble ears. Underground, the roots are often affected, leading to poor nutrient absorption and eventual decline.
The disease is caused by a mycoplasma-like organism (MLO) that spreads through grafting or via leafhoppers, such as the Chinese rhinoceros leafhopper. Once infected, the pathogen moves through the phloem, affecting the tree's vascular system and causing long-term damage. Symptoms typically progress through stages: initial mosaic patterns on leaves, followed by shrinking, abnormal buds, and eventually, the transformation of flowers into leaf-like structures.
Prevention methods include selecting disease-free plants, using quarantine measures, and implementing proper agricultural practices. Surgical treatments, such as girdling and pruning, can help manage less severe cases. Antibiotics like tetracycline have shown some success in treating infected trees, but the most effective approach remains early detection and removal of diseased plants.
Despite ongoing efforts, challenges remain. Research progress is slow, and there is a lack of comprehensive data on the disease’s molecular mechanisms. Additionally, the role of vector insects and their ecological relationships require further study. To combat this issue, future research should focus on developing resistant varieties, improving biotechnological tools for detection, and exploring sustainable treatment options.
By strengthening resistance, enhancing management practices, and advancing scientific understanding, we can better protect jujube crops and ensure their long-term viability.