Phytoplasma-associated diseases in stone fruits, pomegranate and grapevine in Jordan

Field surveys and molecular-based analyses revealed the presence of almond and pomegranate phytoplasma-associated diseases and confirmed the diffusion of grapevine yellows in Jordan. Seven ‘Candidatus Phytoplasma’ species belonging to eight ribosomal subgroups were detected in symptomatic almond trees, four ‘Ca. Phytoplasma’ species belonging to five ribosomal subgroups were identified in symptomatic pomegranate trees, and four ‘Ca. Phytoplasma’ species belonging to four subgroups were identified in symptomatic wine and table grapevine cultivars. Preliminary results were obtained in additional host plants and putative insect vectors of these phytoplasmas.