Lethal yellowing disease confirmed in Dominica

The Dominica Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Blue and Green Economy has confirmed the presence of lethal yellowing disease in the country, raising concerns about potential impacts on the island’s coconut industry.

Laboratory verification was completed in February 2026 by the University of Florida following diagnostic testing coordinated through the Plant Protection and Quarantine Unit within the Division of Agriculture. The confirmation came after field investigations and the submission of plant samples from the Woodford Hill area in the North East Agricultural Region.

Lethal yellowing is a highly destructive disease affecting coconut and ornamental palms. It is transmitted by the plant hopper Myndus crudus and can cause coconut palms to decline rapidly and die within three to six months.

The disease has previously caused major economic losses across several Caribbean countries, including Jamaica, St. Kitts and Nevis, Cuba, The Bahamas, Antigua and Barbuda and Guadeloupe.

The ministry said the situation is being treated with “the highest level of urgency and seriousness,” noting that coconuts remain a key component of Dominica’s agricultural landscape and rural economy. As one of the country’s “5 C’s” priority crops, coconut production supports activities such as water nut sales, agro-processing, craft and cottage industries, and local cuisine.

An emergency action plan has been activated along with a localized eradication and management strategy for the Woodford Hill area, which has been designated a restricted “red zone” where the removal of plant material is prohibited.

Measures being implemented include enhanced monitoring of coconut palms in affected and surrounding communities, destruction and sanitation of infected or suspected trees to prevent the spread of the disease, monitoring the movement of coconut planting material and related products from affected areas, and engagement with farmers, vendors, traders, agro-processors and community leaders.

Public awareness campaigns and consultations are also planned to encourage cooperation and ensure national awareness of the issue.

Authorities are urging the public to report signs such as unusual dropping of premature nuts, blackening of inflorescence or loss of the crown of coconut trees to the nearest agricultural office. Farmers and vendors are also advised to avoid moving coconut planting material from affected areas unless authorized.

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The ministry stressed that early detection and rapid response will be critical to controlling and eventually eradicating the disease from Dominica. Officials said updates will be provided as monitoring and response efforts continue, along with additional technical guidance and community consultations in the coming weeks.