Xanthomonas arboricola is a bacterial pathogen that causes diseases in various fruit trees, ornamental plants, and other crops. It is divided into different pathovars based on the host plant it infects. One of the pathovars, Xanthomonas arboricola pv. pruni (Xap), specifically affects stone fruit trees such as plums, peaches, and cherries.
In Serbia, Xanthomonas arboricola has been reported as a significant concern in stone fruit production. The bacterium can cause a disease known as bacterial spot, characterized by small, water-soaked lesions on leaves, stems, and fruits. As the infection progresses, the lesions may turn necrotic, leading to defoliation and reduced fruit quality and yield. Less...