Initial stages of infectious process of Pseudomonas syringae pv. garcae in coffee leaves

Abstract

Bacterial blight of coffee (Pseudomonas syringae pv. garcae) (PSG) has been causing damage and losses to coffee growing. However, initial stages of the infectious process should be described in order to understand the relationship cycle and to propose efficient management strategies. This study described the initial stages of infectious process of the PSG in coffee leaves over time. The bacterial penetration sites studied were stomata, leaf margins, and wounds. Coffee seedlings received 50μL inoculum suspension at marked points on the abaxial face and leaf margins, and around wounds. By 30 minutes, 1, 3, 6, and 12 hours after inoculation, leaf disks collected at inoculated points were analyzed with scanning electron microscopy. One hour after inoculation, bacterial groups could be seen as result of cell multiplication. Subsequently, the number of grouped bacteria increased proportionally over time. A growing population concentration was found near stomata, wounds, epidermal appendages, and wax layer on leaf margins and leaf tip. From these places bacteria were positioned in their long axis starting from structures, thus created a population gradient and displacement flow toward penetration sites. Initial stages of infectious process occurred in all penetration sites, thus it was not possible to determine a preferred pathway.