Ralstonia

solanacearum Ralstonia solanacearum is a Gram-negative, soilborne, plant-pathogenic bacterium species. It is destructive to many crops, including potatoes, tomatoes, peppers and other solanaceous plants. R. solanacearum has a vast geographical distribution, being able to survive in tropical, subtropical, and temperate climates. It is an important plant pathogen, causing losses in agricultural production worldwide. Rapid and reliable detection methods for R. solanacearum are needed to prevent and control the spread of the disease. Control methods include the use of fungicides and resistant cultivars, proper crop rotation, sanitation methods and removal of infected plants.