Background/context:

Bacterial blotch of melons caused by Acidovorax avenae subsp. citrulli (AAC) is a potentially devastating disease to the rock melon and watermelon industries, worth approximately $40 million in Australia. The disease can lead to losses reaching 80-100% of a crop. A polymerase chain reaction (PCR) based diagnostic test will allow early detection of the pathogen for the implementation of management strategies to control bacterial blotch of melons.

 Aim:

The overall aim of this project was to develop a PCR-based diagnostic test for Acidovorax avenae subsp. citrulli). Assessing the diversity of Acidovorax avenae subsp. citrulli (AAC) in Australia and identifying genomic DNA fragments specific for AAC will advance the project objectives.

Major Outcomes:

The project was a success, with an elevated understanding of the genetic diversity of AAC strains present in Australia and the development of a diagnostic test for use by industry for the detection and identification of Acidovorax avenae subsp. citrulli in infected plant material. Protocols for the detection of the pathogen in diseased material and seeds have been developed. The test protocols are currently being transferred to the DPI&F at Indooroopilly where the test will service the melon industry in Queensland.

For more information contact:

Dr Mark Fegan
The University of Queensland
Phone: +61 (0)7 3365 9150
Email: m.fegan@uq.edu.au