Burkholderia andropogonis

Systematic position and nature of the pathogen: Burkholderia andropogonis is a Gram-negative, non-spore-forming rod-shaped bacterium. Belonging to the Burkholderia genus, it acts as a specialized phytopathogen. It is known to colonize plant tissues, causing significant structural damage and necrosis in a variety of susceptible botanical hosts.

Diseases and host crops: This bacterium is primarily associated with bacterial leaf spot and stripe diseases in maize, sorghum, and sugarcane. Additionally, it has been identified as a pathogen in various ornamental species, most notably carnations (Dianthus), where it causes systemic infection, stunting, and necrotic tissue degradation.

Biology and life cycle: The pathogen survives within infected plant debris in the soil or can be transmitted through contaminated seeds. During the growing season, the bacteria are disseminated primarily by wind-blown rain and contaminated agricultural machinery. Infection occurs when the bacteria enter the plant through stomata or wounds caused by physical damage.

Conditions for development and impact: Disease outbreaks are favored by warm, humid environments, especially during periods of heavy rainfall. The pathogen thrives under high humidity, which facilitates rapid colonization. The economic impact is significant, as it leads to reduced photosynthesis, lower grain yield, poor foliage quality, and in severe cases, the total loss of ornamental crops.

Measures of protection and control: Managing Burkholderia andropogonis requires an integrated pest management (IPM) strategy focused on exclusion and sanitation. Key actions include:

• Sourcing certified pathogen-free seeds;
• Implementing strict crop rotation schedules;
• Removing and destroying infected plant debris;
• Improving greenhouse sanitation and ventilation to reduce humidity;
• Selecting disease-resistant cultivars when available.