(2) Frequently Asked Questions

1) Question: How long after infected plants are destroyed may new banana keikis be planted?

Answer: Because the banana bunchy top virus does not survive in dead banana tissues, one could replant in the immediate vicinity as soon as the old diseased banana plants are dead from Roundup injection or after their corms are completely dug out. It is not necessary to haul away or move dead plants that once had bunchy top. Other considerations may affect the decision as to when and where to replant, such as the presence of weevils or nematodes. However, the following words of advice are offered by the Hawaii Department of Agriculture:

"People need to be aware of their surroundings...if BBTV is found around their properties.  It's wise not to plant again until the disease is eliminated. This has always been a concern whenever we give the go ahead to those wishing to replant.  Of course the other factor maybe the risk of host plants for infected aphids to have found temporary shelter, and then return to newly replanted bananas that could get infected.  Possible spraying of related host plants for aphids with soaps may help.  As a rule of thumb we tell them that aphids may not live longer than 3-4 weeks, so after that it may be okay to replant.  It's always tongue-in-cheek for us to give advice, but, after informing them of the risks, we give the go-ahead to replant because of their need to get fresh fruit from their backyards.  They are always thankful when we're honest with them.  The other things is to remind them that they need to start with REALLY CLEAN STOCK."  (Nilton Matayoshi, Hawaii Dept. of Agriculture)

2) Question: Does the banana bunchy top virus affect humans?
Answer: no, the virus does not infect humans and it is safe to eat virus-infected bananas.

3) Question: Does the banana aphid sting or bite humans?
Answer: no, the banana aphid is harmless to the human body and it only feeds on plants.

4) Question: Can a banana plant without disease symptoms still carry the bunchy top virus?
Answer: yes.

5) Question: Can adult aphids pass the virus along to their offspring?
Answer: no.

6) Question: Is banana the only host for banana bunchy top virus?
Answer: yes.

7) Question: Is banana the only host for the banana aphid?
Answer: no, the aphid feeds from a wide range of hosts in Hawaii.

8) Question: Will plants infected with BBTV still bear fruit?
Answer: probably not.