A damaging potato virus has spread to four additional properties in Tasmania, bringing the total number of infected sites to six.
Biosecurity Tasmania today confirmed four new mop-top virus detections across the state’s north and north-west regions.
Two cases involve seed potatoes and were identified through “increased general surveillance efforts”, the body said.
The virus has established direct links between four properties, including a small research plot in the state’s south where volunteer potatoes tested positive.
“Early traceback activities indicate that the virus may have been present in Tasmania for at least two years,” Biosecurity Tasmania said.
Authorities discovered the southern site earlier this month after researchers voluntarily submitted potato samples for testing.
Two additional detections emerged through routine surveillance, with tracing work continuing to establish potential connections between these sites and existing infections.
All infected properties now operate under strict biosecurity directions, preventing movement of potato material, machinery, equipment and soil.
The outbreak has affected multiple potato varieties grown commercially in the state, though authorities have not specified which are involved.
“All potato growers need to remain vigilant for any signs of disease in potato plants and potato stock,” Biosecurity Tasmania said.
Anyone suspecting the virus should contact the Exotic Plant Pest Hotline on 1800 084 881 immediately.
The detection represents Australia’s first confirmed potato mop-top virus outbreak.
