Bacterial wilt of solanaceous crops

Abstract

Solanaceous crops play an important role in human diet and the economy of nations. They are also called as "Nightshades". This family is distributed throughout the world in all continents except Antarctica. Solanaceae family consists of 98 genera and 2700 species, with greater habitat, morphological and ecological diversity. The family Solanaceae includes number of commonly cultivated species. Most important genus of the family Solanaceae is "Solanum", which includes Potato, Tomato, Brinjal, Chilli and Capsicum, that are used as food. They can grow in several conditions ranging from tropics to subtropics. In this diverse climatic conditions they are infested by several diseases, one among them is bacterial wilt caused by bacterium Ralstonia solanacearum (most damaging plant pathogen). Ralstonia solanacearum has been reported to conquer 450+ plant species belonging to 54 different botanical families, the most susceptible hosts being solanaceous crops. Potato, tomato, brinjal and chilli are mostly affected by this bacterial wilt. Poor seed systems were a major contributor to the extensive spread, high incidence and high prevalence of this devastating disease. This review article focuses on etiology, epidemiology, diagnosis and management practices (physical, cultural, biological & chemical control measures) that are used in management of this disease.