PHYLLOXERA AND ITS THREAT TO WESTERN AUSTRALIA

Authors:	J.H. Botha, B.E. Stephenson, P.J. Tille
Keywords:	soil types, mapping, suitability, establishment potential, viticultural areas
Abstract: Here an attempt is made to incorporate information on soil types preferred by phylloxera and soil-landscape mapping for Western Australia into a predictive map. The map indicates the phylloxera susceptibility ratings of vineyards in the Margaret River area with regards to soil types only. Many other factors, such as the use of phylloxera-resistant rootstock, mulching and other cultivational practices, temperature and rainfall, and the interaction of all of these, could have a further impact on the establishment and damage potential of phylloxera in a particular area. It is estimated that almost half of the Western Australian viticultural land currently in use would be highly susceptible to phylloxera infestations. With more than 95% of wine grapes being produced on own-rooted grapevines, it is crucial to keep strict quarantine measures in place in order to prevent the introduction of phylloxera to Western Australia.
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