Sandalwood Spike Disease (SSD)

Why is it in News?
  • India’s sandalwood trees, particularly of Karnataka, are facing a serious threat with the return of the destructive Sandalwood Spike Disease (SSD).
Details:
  • SSD:
(1) It is caused by phytoplasma — bacterial parasites of plant tissues.
(2) These parasites are transmitted by insect vectors.
(3) Between 1 and 5% of sandalwood trees lost every year due to the disease.
(4) The disease was first reported in Kodagu in 1899.
(5) It is very difficult to identify the symptoms of SSD. It can be noticed only when the tree gets completely affected.
(6) There is no cure now.
(7) Presently, there is no option but to cut down and remove the infected tree to prevent the spread of the disease.
  • Sandalwood forests:
Posted by Jawwad Kazi on 29th Sep 2020
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