Exciting Breakthrough in Wine Industry! — Science News, June 29, 1974
Pierce’s disease continues to pose challenges for California vineyards, causing significant financial losses each year. The culprit behind this disease, Xylella fastidiosa, has been the focus of recent research efforts.
This bacterium is transmitted among grapevines by insects such as sharpshooter leafhoppers and spittlebugs. These insects carry the microbe in their mouths after feeding on infected plants, passing it on to healthy vines when they feed again. The infection disrupts the flow of water and nutrients in the plant, ultimately leading to its demise.
Despite ongoing research, there is currently no effective treatment for Pierce’s disease. However, scientists are exploring the possibility of genetically modifying grapevines to resist this harmful bacteria.
2024-06-28 14:00:00
Originally published on www.sciencenews.org