Project Number: 5354-21220-010-51
Project Type: Reimbursable

Start Date: Sep 01, 2010
End Date: Aug 31, 2013

Objective:
Develop improved detection and diagnostic methods for the newly described zebra chip disease of potatoes and the putative pathogen, a new species of Candidatus Liberibacter. Evaluate diverse potato germplasm for resistance to development of tuber symptoms of the disease.

Approach:
Analyize currently available DNA sequence information and develop effective molecular tools for detection of the pathogen. Continue obtaining sequence information on the pathogen by cloning additional portions of the genome. Inoculate diverse potato germplasm with zebra chip via grafing or psyllid feeding and rate tubers for disease. Test weeds and alternate hosts for the putative pathogen.