PROFILE

ARO, Volcani Center is a government research body and serves as the research-arm of the Ministry of Agriculture in Israel. ARO accounts for over 70% of all agricultural research in Israel and its tenured research staff totals over 500 scientists and assistants. The research teams have advanced research and development capabilities, extensive infrastructure that supports both basic and applied research as well as proven experience in implementation of agricultural and biotechnological innovations. The ARO is composed of six institutes, and two regional research centers. Research in the Institute of Plant Protection deals with all aspects of plant disease including detection, control, mechanisms and resistance caused by insects, fungi, bacteria, viruses, phytoplasmas, weeds and nematodes. Precision application of chemicals and environment-friendly alternative methods of pest control are among important research aspects. This array of expertise enables the ARO to conduct multi-disciplinary research.

ROLE IN THE PROJECT

ARO is coordinating and conducting the main investigations on carrot diseases. The project participants were selected for the complementary expertise that each can provide. The research proposed requires a mix of virology, entomology and molecular biology. All researchers are especially familiar with Plant pathogens, including fastidious organism and the development of integrated management strategies. We are experienced in entomology and conducting projects related to psyllid species and bacterial pathogens. We will develop effective diagnostic tests to allow rapid screening and detection of infected source plants and develop effective prevention and control programs. In addition, we will contribute to promote dissemination activities and increase the project external visibility.

ARO will be involved in the following work packages: WP1, WP2, WP3, WP4, WP5, WP6, WP9, WP10, WP11

STAFF

• BAHAR OFIR
• GERA ABED
• GHANIM MURAD
• MAWASSI MUNIR