Understanding how plant diseases spread is just as important as detecting them. In the case of Xylella fastidiosa, monitoring insect vectors is essential to assess the risk of transmission within agricultural systems.
CERBERUS uses a sweep-netting methodology to capture potential vectors in olive plots.
Technicians move through the field performing systematic sweeps over vegetation cover and tree canopies. This process is repeated in controlled intervals to ensure consistency in sampling effort.
Captured insects are temporarily stored in identification bags until potential vectors are detected. Once identified, insects are transferred to containers and preserved in ethanol to maintain their condition for further analysis.
Each sample is labelled with a unique code, ensuring full traceability. Proper storage is essential to prevent degradation and preserve the quality of the sample.
This methodology provides valuable information on vector presence and distribution, helping researchers understand how the disease may spread across different areas.
Together with plant sampling and laboratory analysis, vector monitoring completes the CERBERUS approach to disease surveillance.
