Liberibacter

In 2008, a 'new pathogen to science' was discovered by Auckland scientists, headed by Dr Lia Leifting.

They discovered a new species of Liberibacter infecting a range of solanaceous crops, a pathogen they named Candidatus Liberibacter solanacearum.

This bacteria-like organism was subsequently found to be the cause of 'zebra-chip' disease - an issue that has plagued the USA for over 15 years.

When affected potato tubers are fried they can turn dark brown due to high sugar accumulation caused by the phloem-limited Liberibacter.

For more information about liberibacter testing, please contact us.