GRAPEVINE CROWN GALL: CURRENT DATA AND RESEARCH PERSPECTIVES

Abstract

Grapevine (Vitis vinifera L.) is one of the most widespread and economically important fruit crops in the world based on its capacity to produce high yields of quality fruit, hectares cultivated and its ability to grow in a wide range of climates and soils. However, it is greatly exposed to a wide variety of pathogens, affecting production and fruit quality. Among the potential threats, Allorhizobium vitis, the causal agent of grapevine crown gall represents a limiting factor in grape production worldwide. It causes vine decline and mortality especially in young vineyards and orchards with important economic losses. Owing of the systemic survival of Allorhizobium vitis in grapevine, copper bactericides and antibiotics are ineffective, and they are able to kill only the bacterium on contact. Therefore, the knowledge of pathogen, effective control and prevention strategies, and sensitive detection methods of pathogen are needed to improve the management of the disease. This review highlights the current state of research and the major acquisitions in this field and provides efficient procedures for isolating from tumors and soil. In addition, this paper discusses the different strategies used for the management of grapevine crown gall along with their drawbacks. Moreover, detection methods for rapid and proper identification of the disease bacteria were provided to enhance the efficiency of control measures and prevent the spread of the pathogen.