By identifying the DNA in spores floating through the air, it’s hoped a new technology can help farmers to tackle crop diseases more effectively while using fewer chemicals.
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Climate change is boosting the spread of Xylella fastidiosa, a bacterium devastating Mediterranean crops like olive and grapevines. Researchers predict increased risks under global warming scenarios, stressing the importance of climate in plant disease outbreaks and the need for enhanced agricultural surveillance and management.
Biologists uncovered crucial microbial processes in Georgia’s saltwater marshes. Their study reveals that bacteria in cordgrass roots detoxify sulfides and fix nitrogen, boosting plant health and resilience. These findings, facilitated by advanced genomic technology, underscore the vital role of microbes in coastal ecosystems globally.
Plants utilize the drought hormone abscisic acid (ABA) to block spider mites, a major pest, by closing stomata within hours of infestation. This response, typically for water conservation, also prevents mites from accessing nutrients. These findings, using the ABACUS2 biosensor, may guide future crop breeding for enhanced pest resistance.
A recent study reveals the vital role of predatory insects, such as hoverflies and ladybirds, in safeguarding Britain’s apple orchards from pests. Planting wildflower strips near orchards significantly reduces fruit damage, potentially increasing premium apple yields by 6.9% while promoting sustainable farming practices and reducing reliance on pesticides.
Scientists have achieved a breakthrough in molecular plant pathology, marking a technological leap forward for breeding durable disease-resistant crops.
Researchers used text analytics on historical and contemporary writings, including tweets, to trace the spread of Phytophthora infestans, the pathogen behind the 1840s Irish potato famine and ongoing potato and tomato issues. By analyzing keywords and social media, they shed light on past outbreaks and modern disease trends, showcasing the potential of textual analysis in disease tracking.
Scientists have discovered a stealth molecular weapon that plants use to attack the cells of invading gray mold: plant RNA defense systems hidden in unassuming “bubbles”.
Plants often develop communities with microorganisms in their roots, which influences plant health and development. Although the recruitment of these microbes is dictated by several factors, it is unclear whether the genetic variation in the host plants plays a role. In a new study, researchers explored this question and their work can help improve agriculture productivity.
Lurking inside the crops of banana-producing-areas in east and central Africa is a disease called Banana Xanthomonas Wilt (BXW)—and new modeling has shown that if left uncontrolled, this bacterial disease could cause a 55% reduction in banana production in newly affected regions within 10 years.
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