Citrus Black Spot (CBS)

The Problem

Citrus Black Spot (CBS) is a significant fungal disease caused by the pathogen Phyllosticta citricarpa. The disease primarily causes cosmetic damage, resulting in superficial lesions on the rind of susceptible citrus fruit cultivars. Lesions can also appear on the twigs and leaves of affected trees. Fruit exhibiting these symptoms is considered unmarketable for export, as the pathogen poses a phytosanitary risk to key international markets.