ARS | Publication request: Two whole genome sequences of Xylella fastidiosa almond leaf scorch strains

Submitted to: American Phytopathological Society Abstracts
Publication Type: Abstract Only
Publication Acceptance Date: March 15, 2007
Publication Date: June 1, 2007
Citation: Chen, J., Han, S., Civerolo, E.L., Stenger, D.C., Van Sluys, M.A. 2007. Two whole genome sequences of Xylella fastidiosa almond leaf scorch strains [abstract]. Phytopathology 97(supplement): S21.

Technical Abstract: Almond leaf scorch disease (ALSD) is currently re-emerging in the Central Valley of California, threatening the production of this high value crop. Our knowledge about biology and pathogenicity of ALSD is currently limited, hindering the development of effective disease control strategies. ALSD is caused by the infection of Xylella fastidiosa. Two distinct genotypes/morphotype/pathotypes are associated with ALSD in California. We isolated an A-genotype strain (M12) and a G-genotype strain (M23) from ALSD trees in Kern County of California. Whole genome sequences of the two strains were determined (average coverage of 20 fold redundancy) and annotated. Strain M12 has a genome size of 2,475,130 bp in 1 contig, 51.9 % GC content, and 2,182 candidate protein-encoding genes. Strain M23 has a genome size of 2,573,988 bp in 3 contigs, 51.7 % GC content, and 2,272 candidate protein-encoding genes. Preliminary analyses showed that while most of the genes are conserved, there are significant number of genome rearrangements in these two strains and other completely sequenced X. fastidiosa genomes (strains 9a5c and Temecula1). Analyses on the presence, distribution and possible biological nature and diversity of mobile elements are underway.