Citrus Bacteriosis in Mexico. S. Rodríguez G, Apartado Postal 88, Tecomán, Colima, México. J. G. Garza L., Sarh, Inia, Caeteco, Apartado Postal 88, Tecomán, Colima, México; J. J. Stapleton, USDA, ARS, Apartado Postal 121, Tecomán, Colima, México; and E. L. Civerolo, USDA, ARS, Agricultural Research Center, Beltsville, MD 20705. Plant Dis. 69:808-810. Accepted for publication 14 May 1985. This article is in the public domain and not copyrightable. It may be freely reprinted with customary crediting of the source. The American Phytopathological Society, 1985. DOI: 10.1094/PD-69-808.

A leaf- and twig-spotting disease was first recognized in Colima, Mexico, late in 1981 on Mexican lime trees (Citrus aurantifolia). The disease has since been found in Mexican lime groves in several Pacific Coast states of Mexico as well as on other citrus varieties located near affected Mexican lime groves. 'Citrus bacteriosis' (CB) is characterized by tan or light brown raised lesions (1–4 mm in diameter) with chlorotic halos and limited development. Lesions occur primarily on young succulent leaves and green shoots. No symptoms have been observed on citrus fruits. Bacteria identified as Xanthomonas campestris pv. citri (X. c. citri) on the basis of physiological, biochemical, serological, and pathogenicity tests, as well as other bacteria, have been associated with CB. Isolation of X. c. citri strains has been inconsistent, although bacteria in disease lesions often have been serologically linked to X. c. citri. Internal and external quarantines on movement of citrus from CB-affected areas have been in effect since 1982. In addition, a program to reduce levels of CB pathogen(s) in Colima by spraying groves periodically with copper oxychloride (2.5 g a.i./L) is under way.

Keyword(s): citrus bacterial canker disease, citrus disease.