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Pierce's Disease
Research Updates

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What is Pierce's Disease?

Pierce's Disease is a bacterial infection, which is spread by bugs that feed on grapevines, particularly the "glassy winged sharpshooter." Grapevines that become infected with PD can quickly become sick and die.

glassy-winged sharpshooter

MECHANISMS OF PIERCES DISEASE TRANSMISSION IN GRAPEVINES: RELEVANCE OF HYDRAULIC ARCHITECTURE

  • Author(s): Matthews, Mark; Rost, Thomas; Stevenson, Joshua;
  • Abstract: The arrangement of vascular tissue within the nodes of Chardonnay grapevine (Vitis vinifera) shoots was studied as an investigation of potential pathways of infection for the bacterium that causes Pierces disease (Xylella fastidiosa). Grapevine stem anatomy of the current years growth was observed with both light and scanning electron microscopy and xylem conductance was observed by following traces of stains within the vascular tissue. The pattern of vascular divergence to lateral organs is described and implications for the spread of Pierces disease within the grapevine shoot are discussed.
  • Publication Date: Aug 2003
  • Journal: 2003 Pierce's Disease Research Symposium

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