First report of Xylella fastidiosa on sugar maple and sweetgum
In Kentucky (US), in October 1995, bacterial leaf scorch caused by Xylella fastidiosa (EPPO A1 quarantine pest), has been identified in a mature sugar maple (Acer saccharum) and in a ten-year-old sweetgum (Liquidambar styraciflua). Symptoms were characterized by premature leaf browning, marginal necrosis of leaves, and defoliation. The presence of the bacterium was confirmed by a specific ELISA test and electronic microscopy. The authors noted that in addition, bacterial leaf scorch is associated with death of many oaks in some Kentucky cities. Acer saccharum and Liquidambar styraciflua are reported for the first time as host plants of X. fastidiosa.
Sources
Hartman, J.R.; Jarlfors, U.E., Thomas, R. (1996) First report of bacterial leaf scorch caused by Xylella fastidiosa on sugar maple and sweetgum.
Plant Disease, 80(11), p 1302.