GISTECHNOLOGY FOR THE MONITORING OF SHARKA DISEASE IN THE ODESSA REGION

Plant virus causes many important plant diseases and are responsible for huge losses in crop production and quality in all parts of the world, and consequently, agronomists and plant pathologists have devoted considerable effort toward controlling virus diseases. One the most important virus on many Prunus species, causing great economic losses is Plum pox virus (PPV),casual agent of Sharka disease. Since its discovery, Sharka has been considered as a calamity in stone orchards. The virus has been detected in almost every country where any significant commercial stone fruit cultivation occurs [1]. The virus is entered into the list of regulated pests common in Ukraine. In Ukraine, the total area of PPV spread totals 4013,2764 ha. In Odessa region, 18.5 ha districts are in PPV quarantine. Six hotbeds of PPV infection totalling 28 hectares were found in Odessa region. For the first time in Odessa region, PPV was found on cherry trees. Peach and plum trees are hit equally. In this study, we use geographic information systems technology to identify potential locations in a Odessa region for controlling the spread of Plum pox virus. To our knowledge, this is the first attempt to employ GIS technology for controlling plant diseases in Ukraine. Provided it is properly maintained, the geospatial data, and the ability to generate detailed maps with it, is key to the success of PPV containment. Information management will be a key to improving for controlling the spread of Plum pox virus