Co-Authors:
Ezra, D., Department of Plant Pathology and Weed Research, ARO, Volcani Center, P.O. Box 6, Bet Dagan 50250, Israel
Kroitor, T., Department of Plant Pathology and Weed Research, ARO, Volcani Center, P.O. Box 6, Bet Dagan 50250, Israel
Sadowsky, A., Extension Service, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, Bet Dagan, Israel
Abstract:
Mal secco disease of citrus caused by Phoma tracheiphila is a devastating disease in the Mediterranean basin. Susceptible citrus species include lemon, citron, lime and others. Trees attacked by the fungus show characteristic symptoms; the smallest twigs die first, followed by the larger branches. Eventually, the whole tree is killed. The symptoms are clear in the orchards but by the time they are visible the disease is already well established. The need for a sensitive, reliable and rapid diagnostic method for the early identification of the fungus in trees and fruit exists. We have developed a PCR-based method for the identification of P. tracheiphila from plant tissues including fruit. Any such method must take into account the genetic variability in the pathogen population. Molecular methods were used to compare different isolates of P. tracheiphila. This study found no significant differences between different isolates from different citrus species from different parts of Israel. © 2007 KNPV.