Studies on Bacterial Wilt of Tomato: Biological Control

The present investigation was undertaken during the period from 2009-12 at the Department of Plant Pathology, Faculty of Agriculture Farm, greenhouse and laboratories, University of Assiut, Assiut, Egypt. The specific objectives were to isolate and identify of native plant growth promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) isolates from tomato and potato rhizosphere, screen them against Ralstonia solanacearum causing bacterial wilt of tomato and to elucidate their mechanisms of biocontrol. The ability of the isolates to promote plant growth and to reduce disease incidence has also assessed in greenhouse and field conditions. In vitro, screening of certain plant essential oils against R. solanacearum and selected PGPR isolates. Evaluation the effect of PGPR isolates, plant essential oils, and the Arbuscular Mycorrhiza (AM) individually or in combinations against the pathogen under greenhouse and field conditions. To our knowledge, this is the first study of tomato bacterial wilt in Egypt.

Mohamed A. A. Seleim,Assistant lecturer, Department of Plant Pathology, Faculty of Agriculture, Al-Azhar University (Assiut Branch), Egypt. Administrative Editor, Journal of Phytopathology and Pest Management.