Bacterial wilt (Ralstonia solanacearum)

Ralstonia solanacearum is a bacterium which infects the xylem. By cutting off the plant’s water supply it causes wilting and ultimately death. This pathogen can cause disease in a range of plants including potato, tomato, pepper, aubergine and tobacco. Outbreaks of disease have been linked to bacteria spreading from wild plants (particularly woody nightshade) to crops through contaminated water after heavy rain or over-watering.

The bacterium has been found in the UK, but is not currently causing major problems. However, infections are more severe in warmer temperatures so might increase due to climate change. To try and avoid outbreaks of potato brown rot (caused by Ralstonia solanacearum) and other diseases potatoes imported to the UK are subject to quarantine and inspections. Researchers on our Ralstonia phage project are investigating whether bacteriophages (viruses which kill bacteria) might be used as a biocontrol method to help minimise the impact of bacterial wilts in the future.

Find out more about Ralstonia solanacearum via these resources:

• DEFRA guidance on identifying and reporting Ralstonia solanacearum (brown rot) in potatoes
• An overview of the science of Ralstonia solanacearum published in Plant Health Progress
• A factsheet about Ralstonia solanacearum from CABI
• Datasheet on Ralstonia solanacearum from EPPO

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