Forest Pathology (2016) 46, 240-247

H.G.M. Ferraz, G.A. Demuner, L.M.S. Guimarães, D.A.A. Arriel, A.C. da Silva, N.B. Junior, R.G. Mafia and A.C. Alfenas (2016)
Methods of inoculation and evaluation of Erwinia psidii in eucalypt
Forest Pathology 46 (3), 240-247
Abstract: The dieback and wilting caused by Erwinia psidii are emerging eucalypt diseases that have been observed since 2014 in the south and central-south regions of Brazil. Field observations have shown variability in disease severity resistance among Eucalyptus spp. clones and species. It is hypothesized that this variability is due to genetic resistance. To confirm this hypothesis, inoculations in genetically distinct eucalypt plants are necessary. However, lack of an inoculation method and disease assessment makes difficult to select resistant genotypes for use in commercial plantations or genetic breeding programmes. Three inoculation methods were tested on eight clones of Eucalyptus spp. Among them, inoculum deposition with bacteria-impregnated toothpick on the axillary buds was the simplest and most effective, capable to reproduce the disease symptoms observed under conditions of natural infection. We also developed a rating scale for disease assessment. Among eight clones tested, only Clone 1 (Eucalyptus saligna) and Clone 2 (Eucalyptus urophylla) were resistant.
(The abstract is excluded from the Creative Commons licence and has been copied with permission by the publisher.)
Link to article at publishers website
Database assignments for author(s): Acelino C. Alfenas

Research topic(s) for pests/diseases/weeds:
general biology - morphology - evolution
resistance/tolerance/defence of host

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Pest and/or beneficial records:

Beneficial	Pest/Disease/Weed	Crop/Product	Country	Quarant.
	Erwinia psidii	Eucalypt (Eucalyptus)	Brazil (south)