Detection of the Bacterial Potato Pathogens Pectobacterium and Dickeya spp. Using Conventional and Real-Time PCR

Area of Science:

• Plant Pathology
• Bacteriology
• Agricultural Science

Background:

• Blackleg and soft rot, caused by Pectobacterium and Dickeya species, significantly limit potato production globally.
• Blackleg is a primary reason for potato seed rejection in classification schemes, particularly in Northern Europe.
• Current disease management is hindered by the difficulty in identifying specific causative agents, despite straightforward symptom recognition.

Purpose of the Study:

• To outline a diagnostic pathway for identifying key potato pathogens within the Pectobacterium and Dickeya genera.
• To address the need for accurate and sensitive diagnostics in potato seed classification and disease control.

Main Methods:

• The chapter details a diagnostic approach for Pectobacterium and Dickeya detection.
• Focuses on methods applicable to identifying these specific bacterial genera in potato samples.

Main Results:

• The described diagnostic pathway enables the identification of principal potato pathogens.
• Highlights the importance of diagnostics for disease attribution and management.

Conclusions:

• Accurate diagnostics are essential for distinguishing between Pectobacterium and Dickeya species.
• Effective diagnostic strategies are a prerequisite for controlling potato blackleg and soft rot, especially given disease spread via asymptomatically infected tubers.