Danger of phytoplasma diseases for fodder crop cultivation

Abstract

In a number of Russian regions phytoplasma diseases can be of great importance in the cultivation of forage crops. Nevertheless, phytoplasma diseases are still often considered as a result of the action of abiotic or other factors. The aim of the research was to monitor the distribution of different groups of phytoplasmas on cultivated and wild-growing species of promising forage plants in different regions of Russia. The material for the research was freshly cut or dried parts of cultivated and wild plants with symptoms of phytoplasma infection, collected in different regions of Russia. To detect and identify phytoplasmas, PCR and RFLP analysis were used. Seven genetic groups of phytoplasmas: 16Srl, 16SrII, 16SrIII, 16SrVI, 16SrXII, 16SrXIV and 16SrX were identified in 47 species of plants from 18 families, including 24 (51%) species of cultivated and 23 wild plant species collected in 17 administrative units of the Russian Federation. The greatest harm phytoplasma diseases cause on wheat and barley cultivated for grain fodder, Russian bromegrass, alfalfa, clover and other legumes, sugar and fodder beets, potatoes, as well as fruits used for animal feed. The harmfulness of phytoplasma diseases increases in areas to the south of the Middle Volga region and in dry years. This should be taken into account when developing regional recommendations for the cultivation of forage crops.