Geographical variations, prevalence, and molecular dynamics of fastidious phloem-limited pathogens infecting sugar beet across Central Europe

• DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0306136
• Publication Date: 2024-07-02T19:12:57Z
• Authors: Bojan Duduk; Jelena Stepanović; Jana Fránová; Agnieszka Zwolińska; Emil Rekanović; Miloš Stepanović; Nina Vučković; Nataša Duduk; Ivana Vico
• Keywords: Fastidious organism

In Europe, two fastidious phloem-limited pathogens, ’ Candidatus Phytoplasma solani’ (16SrXII-A) and Arsenophonus phytopathogenicus’, are associated with rubbery taproot disease (RTD) syndrome basses richesses (SBR) of sugar beet, respectively. Both diseases can significantly reduce yield, especially when accompanied by root rot fungi. This study investigates the presence, geographic distribution genetic traits pathogens accompanying fungus, Macrophomina phaseolina , found on beet across four geographically separated plains spanning seven countries in Central Europe. The survey revealed variable incidences symptoms linked to these Pannonian Wallachian Plains, sporadic occurrence North European Plain, no symptomatic Bohemian Plain. Molecular analyses unveiled both Ca . P. A. phytopathogenicus’ throughout a predominance phytoplasma. These were detected all six surveyed within only limited presence various phytoplasmas was while Bohemia, aligning observed symptoms. While 16S rDNA sequences remained highly conserved, multi-locus characterization more loci ( tuf stamp ) distinct variability patterns plains. Notably, surprising lack particularly contrasted their high Eastern Western corresponding epidemic occurrence, current provides valuable insights into dynamics novel findings five (Slovakia, Czech Republic, Austria, Serbia, Romania) M Slovakia. emphasize need for further investigation vector–pathogen(s)–plant host interactions ecological drivers outbreaks.