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CITRUSBUSTERS Project kicks off: get to know us

15th May, 2025

On May 15 – 16 2025, the CITRUSBUSTERS consortium gathered for the first time at the facilities of AINIA, the project coordinator, in Valencia, Spain. This in-person meeting gave partners the chance to get to know each other, explore the research infrastructure that will support project activities, and jointly dive into the project’s ambitious goals. Beyond presentations and planning sessions, visiting the AINIA labs allowed the team to better understand the practical challenges ahead and how each organisation will contribute to the shared mission. 

CITRUSBUSTERS was launched in response to a pressing threat: the spread of two devastating citrus diseases and pests that endanger biodiversity, food security, and rural livelihoods in Europe.  

  • Candidatus Liberibacter ––  bacterium behind citrus greening (Huanglongbing, HLB) and its insect vector Trioza erytreae 
  • Phyllosticta citricarpa ––  fungal pathogen responsible for Citrus Black Spot (CBS) 
     

Without sustainable, science-based interventions, these threats could significantly damage Mediterranean citrus production and EU biosecurity. 

 

What CITRUSBUSTERS aims to do 

This 4-year Horizon Europe Research and Innovation Action (RIA) project brings together 12 partners, covering research, biotech, grower representation, and communication. 

Together, we aim to deliver practical, sustainable solutions across five strategic pillars: 

  1. Smart detection – early-warning systems using drones, hyperspectral and LiDAR imaging, and AI-based prediction models 
     
  1. Plant resilience – disease-resistant citrus via DNA-free breeding and natural immunity boosters 
     
  1. Biocontrol innovation – biotech solutions like dsRNA, endolysins, and antifungal microbes 
     
  1. Field validation and Integrated Pest Management (IPM) – testing and co-developing IPM strategies with farmers 
     
  1. Shared impact – from IPM protocols and practice abstracts to policy briefs and impact assessments 
     

An international and collaborative effort 

 

CITRUSBUSTERS is a transdisciplinary alliance of actors from Europe and Brazil – – one of the world’s largest citrus producers bringing key expertise and testing grounds – –  working across the citrus value chain. We include all knowledge and tools needed, from lab research to field application, from policy engagement to grower empowerment. 

 

The project at a glance [in a box] 

Duration: May 2025 – – April 2029 

Budget: > €6 Million 

Partners: 12 organizations from 7 countries 

Coordinator: AINIA (Spain) 

 

Stay connected 

This is just the beginning. Over the coming months, the consortium will advance field trials, and technology development. We’ll share our progress every step of the way. 

Visit www.citrusbusters.eu and follow us on social media to stay updated.