Introduction of beneficial bacteria to grapevines as a possible control of phytoplasma associated diseases Naor Vered1,2,*, Iasur-Kruh Lilach3, Barkai Roni1, Bordolei Rima1, Rodoy Shany3, Harel Meiram1, Zahavi Tirtza4, Zhori-Fein Einat3 1Golan Research Institute-Haifa University, Katsrin, Israel 2Ohalo College, Katsrin, Israel 3Department of Entomology, Newe Ya'ar Research Center, Agricultural Research Organization, Israel 4Extension service, Ministry of Agriculture, Northern region, Israel *Corresponding author e-mail: Vered Naor (vered_n@macam.ac.il)
Online published on 2 January, 2015. Abstract The possible role of endophytes as bio-agents for controlling yellows diseases was studied in grapevines and in periwinkle plants. Bacterial isolates from grapevines and insect vector of phytoplasmas were tested. Isolates that showed inhibitory effect in a spiroplasma model system in vitro were identified as various Bacilli and Xanthomonadaceae and further investigated. The isolates were successfully introduced via root dip, stem injection and smeared pricked leaf into ex vitro plantlets and potted plants. Further study is in progress to examine whether one of these isolates can be used as a biocontrol agent against phytoplasmas. Top Keywords Endophytes, periwinkle, Spiroplasma. Top |