Practical and Comprehensive Diagnostic Guide for Black Rot of Brassicas

Abstract

Xanthomonas campestris pv. campestris (Pammel) Dowson is the bacterial pathogen responsible for black rot of brassicas that affects all cultivated brassicas worldwide. Black rot is considered the most devastating disease of brassica, affecting crops such as cabbage (Brassica oleracea var. capitata), broccoli (Brassica oleracea var. italica), and rapeseed (Brassica napus subsp. napus). Working with X. campestris pv. campestris can pose challenges due to the complex taxonomical race division and similarities to other species of Xanthomonas. As such, this diagnostic guide aims to provide information about the importance, taxonomy, geographic and host ranges, and best methods for pathogen isolation, identification, storage, and pathogenicity testing for the successful diagnosis of this pathogen.