Molecular characterization of pseudomonas Savastanoi pv. Savastanoi isolated from Myrtus communis L.

Abstract

Ten strains of bacteria were isolated from 22 tumoral samples collected from naturally infected Myrtus communis L. trees from across many locations in Latakia and Tartus. The bacteria was characterized by using a number of biochemical tests (LOPAT), fluorescent dye production on King B medium, and PCR technology to detect the presence of ptz and Iaal genes. As a result of our study, the bacteria isolated from Myrtus communis L. nodules was confirmed as Pseudomonas savastanoi pv. Savastanoi, the causative agent of olive knot. The PCR test was also more reliable in establishing the identity of the bacteria, while other tests such as fluorescent dye production on King B medium and biochemical tests were not conclusive in establishing the identity of the olive knot bacteria.