Insect Vectors and Current Management Strategies for Diseases Caused by Xylella fastidiosa in the Southern United States

Xylella fastidiosa is a bacterial plant pathogen that causes Pierce's disease of grape, citrus variegated chlorosis, phony peach disease, alfalfa dwarf, and leaf scorch of plum, blueberry, and pecan in the southern United States. Xylella fastidiosa also causes almond leaf scorch and oleander leaf scorch. This bacterial plant pathogen is transmitted by xylem-feeding insects, including sharpshooters (Cicadellidae: Cicadellinae) and spittlebugs (Cercopidae). The following paper is a review of the plant diseases caused by X. fastidiosa, its insect vectors, and management strategies in the southern United States.