ARS | Publication request: Two whole genome sequences of Xylella fastidiosa (strains M12 and M23) causing almond leaf scorch disease in California

Submitted to: Journal of Bacteriology
Publication Type: Peer Reviewed Journal
Publication Acceptance Date: June 24, 2010
Publication Date: September 1, 2010
Citation: Chen, J., Xie, G., Han, S., Civerolo, E.L. 2010. Two whole genome sequences of Xylella fastidiosa (strains M12 and M23) causing almond leaf scorch disease in California. Journal of Bacteriology. 192:4543.

Interpretive Summary: Xylella fastidiosa is a bacterial pathogen that causes economically important diseases of horticultural and agronomic crops, and landscape plants, including almond leaf scorch disease (ALSD). The bacterium is difficult to grow in culture. We report the complete genome sequences of two X. fastidiosa strains associated with ALSD. Genome information will greatly benefit basic research on the biology and ecology of this pathogen and development of novel or innovative disease management strategies.

Technical Abstract: Xylella fastidiosa is a Gram negative, nutritionally fastidious plant pathogenic bacterium that causes many economically important diseases including almond leaf scorch disease (ALSD) and Pierce’s disease of grape in California, as well as citrus variegated chlorosis in South America. Genome information greatly facilitates molecular, genetic, biochemical, physiological and phytopathological research on this nutritionally fastidious organism. Here we report the complete genome sequences of two X. fastidiosa strains (M12 and M23) associated with ALSD in California.