Xanthomonas citri

Xanthomonas citri is a species of bacteria that is pathogenic to plants, causing a disease known as citrus canker. This disease affects a wide range of citrus species and can have a significant impact on citrus production worldwide.

Taxonomy

Xanthomonas citri belongs to the genus Xanthomonas, which comprises several other plant pathogenic bacteria. The species name 'citri' refers to its primary host, citrus plants.

Description

Xanthomonas citri is a Gram-negative, rod-shaped bacterium. It is capable of aerobic respiration, but can also grow in the absence of oxygen (anaerobic respiration). The bacterium is motile, using a single flagellum for movement.

Pathogenicity

Xanthomonas citri causes citrus canker, a disease that results in raised, corky lesions on the leaves, fruit, and stems of infected plants. The bacterium enters the plant through natural openings or wounds, and once inside, it multiplies and spreads, causing the characteristic symptoms of the disease.

Management

Control of citrus canker caused by Xanthomonas citri involves a combination of cultural practices, chemical treatments, and the use of resistant varieties. Cultural practices include pruning and disposal of infected plant material to reduce the source of inoculum. Chemical treatments typically involve the use of copper-based fungicides.

Economic Impact

Citrus canker can cause significant yield losses in citrus production, affecting both the quantity and quality of the fruit. This has economic implications for citrus growers and industries dependent on citrus production.

See Also

• Citrus production
• Plant pathology
• Xanthomonas

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