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Rapid field detection of Ralstonia solanacearum in infected tomato and potato plants using the Staphylococcus aureus slide agglutination test
Author(s) -
Lyons N.,
Cruz L.,
Santos M. Sousa
Publication year - 2001
Publication title -
eppo bulletin
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.327
H-Index - 36
eISSN - 1365-2338
pISSN - 0250-8052
DOI - 10.1111/j.1365-2338.2001.tb00972.x
Subject(s) - ralstonia solanacearum , bacterial wilt , staphylococcus aureus , biology , pathogen , direct agglutination test , microbiology and biotechnology , isolation (microbiology) , serology , bacteria , antibody , immunology , genetics
Ralstonia solanacearum is the major cause of bacterial wilt, which affects over 200 species of plants, many of economic importance. Current methods for detection and identification of the pathogen rely on isolation on semi‐selective media followed by a combination of serological and molecular techniques and plant inoculation. Such methods are time‐consuming, and require extensive laboratory facilities and skilled personnel. A reliable and rapid screening technique, which could be applied in the field, would reduce the number of samples submitted for laboratory testing and provide a vital component in disease control measures. A programme for the control of R. solanacearum has been introduced in Portugal and a Staphylococcus aureus slide agglutination test was used directly on tomato and potato plants in the field and on bacterial cultures under laboratory conditions. The results obtained show that this technique can play a major role in control programmes by providing a sensitive tool for the rapid detection of the pathogen.