Presymptomatic multiplication of Xanthomonas campestris pv. vesicatoria on the surface of pepper leaves

Abstract

Xanthomonas vesicatoria infection of pepper leaves was monitored by scanning electron and light microscopy. During incubation the bacteria became located in the intercellular spaces between the mesophyll cells. The primary infection sites were the vein areas. Xanthomonas vesicatoria reach high population levels on the leaf surface but usually not in the stomata. Necrosis was first observed microscopically 120 h after inoculation near the leaf veins. Bacteria were detected in infected tissue but not in necrotic tissue.