Annual dynamics and distribution ofXylella fastidiosain infected almond trees

Abstract

ABSTRACTThis research focused on studying the dynamics of the bacterial pathogenXylella fastidiosain almond trees at different developmental stages and in various tree parts. The objective was to understand the annual distribution and concentration ofX. fastidiosawithin almond trees. Different tree parts, including leaf petioles, annual and perennial shoots, fruit parts, flowers, and roots, from tenX. fastidiosa-infected almond trees were sampled over two years. The distribution and concentration ofX. fastidiosawere determined using qPCR and serial dilution plating. Throughout the study,X. fastidiosawas never found in the fruit, flowers, and roots of almond trees, but it was present in leaves and annual and perennial shoots. We show that the inability ofX. fastidiosato colonize roots is likely due to incompatibility with the GF677 rootstock. The presence ofX. fastidiosain shoots remained consistent throughout the year, while in leaf petioles it varied across developmental stages, with lower detection during early and late stages of the season. Similarly, viableX. fastidiosacells could be isolated from shoots at all developmental stages, while in leaf petioles no successful isolations were achieved during the vegetative and nut growth stage. Examining the development of almond leaf scorch symptoms over time in trees with preliminary infections revealed that once symptoms have appeared on a single branch, other asymptomatic limbs were likely already colonized by the bacterium, hence, selective pruning of symptomatic branches is unlikely to cure the tree. Overall, this study enhances our understanding ofX. fastidiosadynamics in almonds and may have practical applications for its detection and control in almond orchards.