Evaluation of a hybridization probe-based multilocus sequence typing technique for identification of diverse phytoplasmas

Phytoplasmas are specialized plant pathogenic bacteria that can cause devastating losses in crops and natural ecosystems. Correct identification of ‘Candidatus Phytoplasma’ species and strains is essential for managing the diseases associated with the presence of these pathogens. Currently available PCR-based assays are often incapable of unambiguously identifying phytoplasma strains. This study evaluated a recently reported probe-based multilocus sequence typing technique for identification of diverse phytoplasmas. Results proved the efficacy of this technique in specifically identifying ‘Candidatus Phytoplasma’ species and strains of tested phytoplasmas.