Distribution and importance of Xanthomonas manihotis and X. cassavae in East Africa

Abstract

The diseases caused by Xanthomonas manihotis and X. cassavae are currently referred to as cassava bacterial blight. Although the symptoms of the diseases do overlap, some distinctive features can be observed, and the bacteria can be identified on the basis of the symptoms of the diseases they cause. Both species have been reported in East Africa, probably introduced from West Africa via Central Africa. However, surveys (1976-77 and 1978-79) have indicated that X. manihotis is probably more important than X. cassavae in the region.