A Race to Save the Orange by Altering Its DNA

Citrus greening, also called Huanglongbing or yellow dragon disease, is one of the more serious diseases of citrus. This bacterial disease is thought to have originated in China in the early 1900s.  Other than tree removal, there is no effective control once a tree is infected and there is no known cure for the disease. It reduces the quantity and quality of citrus fruits, eventually rendering infected trees useless. In areas of world affected by citrus greening the average productive lifespan of citrus trees has dropped from 50 or more years to 15 or less, and trees in the orchards usually die 3-5 years after becoming infected.

Is genetic engineering the last hope of citrus?  Many farmers think so. 

This week, a look at altering the DNA of oranges in an attempt to stave off citrus greening.

TTFN, Fred. 

Quote of the week: "Out of college, money spent, see no future, pay no rent, all the money’s gone, nowhere to go." – The Beatles, "You Never Give Me Your Money" (Lennon-McCartney)

   A Race to Save the Orange by Altering Its DNA by fredwine