Skipping the Insect Vector: Plant Stolon Transmission of the Phytopathogen 'Ca. Phlomobacter fragariae' from the Arsenophonus Clade of Insect Endosymbionts.

ABSTRACT: The genus Arsenophonus represents one of the most widespread clades of insect endosymbionts, including reproductive manipulators and bacteriocyte-associated primary endosymbionts. Two strains belonging to the Arsenophonus clade have been identified as insect-vectored plant pathogens of strawberry and sugar beet. The bacteria accumulate in the phloem of infected plants, ultimately causing leaf yellows and necrosis. These symbionts therefore represent excellent model systems to investigate the evolutionary transition from a purely insect-associated endosymbiont towards an insect-vectored phytopathogen. Using quantitative PCR and transmission electron microscopy, we demonstrate that 'Candidatus Phlomobacter fragariae', bacterial symbiont of the planthopper Cixius wagneri and the causative age

SUBMITTER: Dittmer J 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC7912703 | biostudies-literature | 2021 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature