CHARACTERISATION OF BACTERIAL BROWN SPOT PATHOGEN FROM DRY BEAN PRODUCTION AREAS OF SOUTH AFRICA

Pseudomonas syringae pv. syringae (Pss) causes bacterial brown spot (BBS) of beans (Phaseolus vulgaris L.), with yield losses of up to 55% in South Africa. Pss has a wide host range and for many of these, the pathogen has been biochemically and genetically characterised. However, few studies have been conducted on Pss isolated from beans. The aim of this study was to assess the biochemical and genetic variability of Pss isolates collected from dry bean producing areas in South Africa. Pure isolates were subjected to LOPAT tests and SyrB gene assessment. Biolog GN Microplates were used to assess carbon substrate utilisation. The SyrB gene was present in 42% of isolates. The Biolog GN Microplates showed biochemical variation among isolates. Variable genomic patterns were observed in 48.5% by the BOX A1R primer and in 37.1% of isolates by the ERIC 2 primer. Thus, variability exists in Pss populations of dry beans.