Genesis Fresh said findings demonstrate that the premium mandarin varieties can address key agronomic and commercial challenges facing growers
The new Havva and Sigal mandarin varieties are naturally resistant to one of the most significant pests affecting citrus production worldwide, new research shows. According to Genesis Fresh, which owns the varieties, independent trials confirm their resistance to the red spider mite (Tetranychus urticae).
“Recent independent scientific laboratory trials conducted in Spain demonstrated that Havva exhibits clear resistance to red spider mite infestation, with statistically significant differences compared to traditional mandarin varieties such as Clemenules and Clemenvilla,” the company said.
“Choice-test trials revealed that after both 24 hours and four days (96 hours), the control varieties consistently showed higher numbers of female mites and eggs compared to Havva, with statistically significant differences (p < 0.05) across the evaluated parameters.”
Sigal also showed lower pest preference compared to the control varieties, particularly versus Clemenvilla, although with slightly lower resistance levels than those observed in Havva.
According to Genesis Fresh, this resistance translates directly into improved grower profitability. “In traditional varieties such as Clemenules, red spider mite management can require more than six phytosanitary treatments per season. In Havva, this requirement may be reduced to a single treatment or, under favourable conditions, eliminated entirely,” the company said.
Based on current mandarin production costs in Spain and the cost of phytosanitary treatments targeting Tetranychus urticae, it estimates that eliminating these applications could generate savings ranging from 10-15 per cent of total cultivation costs.
“In addition to the economic benefits, reducing treatment applications lowers dependency on crop protection products, decreases environmental impact and minimises the risk of resistance development, all critical priorities within the evolving European regulatory landscape,” the company said.
These findings come at a critical time for the citrus industry, as increasing pest pressure and tighter regulatory restrictions accelerate the need for more sustainable production solutions. Genesis Fresh points out that resistance of these varieties to spider mites offers a significant advantage by helping reduce production costs, improve field efficiency, optimise packhouse performance and minimise treatment dependency.
“This advantage is further strengthened by the genetic resistance of both varieties to Alternaria alternata pv. citri, commonly known as Alternaria Brown Spot, one of the most limiting diseases affecting European citrus production today,” it said.
Beyond their field performance, Havva and Sigal also stand out for their strong commercial qualities, including the near absence of seeds even under cross-pollination conditions, excellent peelability, attractive rind colour and resistance to disorders such as pixat, clareta and puffing.
“These attributes, combined with their distinctive flavour profiles, have contributed to acceptance among leading European retailers, who value the varieties’ differentiation and their ability to consistently deliver a unique eating experience,” Genesis Fresh said.
“Overall, these results reinforce Havva and Sigal as next-generation mandarin varieties capable of addressing key agronomic and commercial challenges facing modern citrus production. The combination of resistance to major pests and diseases, reduced treatment dependency, premium fruit quality and strong early commercial acceptance, highlights the increasing role of advanced varietal innovation in the evolution of more efficient and sustainable citrus systems.”
Both Havva and Sigal originate from the Volcani-Genesis Fresh breeding programme and share the same genetic line as the Orri. They are owned by Genesis Fresh, with management and enforcement of rights handled in collaboration with The Enforcement Organisation (TEO).
