BRIGIT (Xylella)

If introduced, Xylella could devastate UK crops, gardens and natural environments

Xylella fastidiosa is a bacterium which can infect over 500 plants causing symptoms including leaf scorch, wilt, die-back and ultimately death. Susceptible plants include important crops like citrus, coffee, grapevine and olive, ornamental plants including lavender and rosemary, and native trees like oak and elm. Xylella infects the plant xylem and is spread by xylem-feeding insects including leafhoppers and froghoppers/spittlebugs.

Xylella is not currently present in the UK, but there have been severe outbreaks in Europe, particularly in olive trees in Italy. There are concerns that the bacterium could be accidentally introduced to the UK on imported plants, with devastating consequences.

Find out more about Xylella

Our research focused on understanding how Xylella might spread and raising awareness

We optimised sampling and diagnostic methods including developing more efficient DNA extraction, the use of whole genome sequencing and isothermal amplification techniques, and using volatile organic compounds as diagnostic markers. To understand how the disease might spread if introduced we studied disease progression, as well as the geographical distribution and behaviour of the insect vectors. This included a nationwide citizen science spittlebug hunt which generated 30,000 records. We also studied how far and how quickly the insects can migrate, and if populations mix within and between countries in Europe. Integrating knowledge about plant pathogen interactions, insect behaviour, human behaviour, and the plant trade we created models which predicted how Xylella might spread if introduced.

For more information about this project contact Saskia Hogenhout.

Meet the BRIGIT Team