Mechanisms of spread of Acute Oak Decline

Abstract

Searching for environmental sources of the ‘AOD bacteria’ G. quercinecans and B. goodwinii. We are testing the hypothesis that these bacteria are ubiquitous in the woodland environment through broad field-sampling, with subsequent molecular detection of the target bacteria using real-time PCR and culture techniques. To investigate mechanisms of spread of the ‘AOD bacteria’, including the potential for transmission by insects associated with declining oak trees. This will initially involve field-collections of A. biguttatus and other bark-boring insects, and organisms visiting the fluid exudates on affected trees. Molecular techniques will again be employed to detect the presence of bacteria in sampled material

Description

Searching for environmental sources of the ‘AOD bacteria’ G. quercinecans and B. goodwinii. We are testing the hypothesis that these bacteria are ubiquitous in the woodland environment through broad field-sampling, with subsequent molecular detection