Authors:
Michael J Jeger; Claude Bragard.
Published online:
November 2018
Source:
APS Journals.
Abstract:
Insect-vectored plant diseases caused by viruses, phytoplasmas and bacteria share many features in common irrespective of the causal agent.
This perspective aims to show how a model framework, developed originally for plant virus diseases can be modified for the case of diseases incited by Xylella fastidiosa. In particular, the model framework enables the specification of a simple but quite general invasion criterion defined in terms of key plant, pathogen and vector parameters, and importantly their interactions, that determine whether or not an incursion or isolated outbreak of a pathogen will lead to establishment, persistence and subsequent epidemic development.
Hence this approach is applicable to the wide range of Xylella fastidiosa-incited diseases that have recently emerged in southern Europe, each with differing host plant, pathogen subspecies, and vector identities. Of particular importance are parameters relating to vector abundance and activity, transmission characteristics, and behaviour in relation to preferences for host infection status. Some gaps in knowledge with regard to the developing situation in Europe are noted.