Definition

Bacteria are simple, single-celled organisms without a nucleus, unlike fungi. They are vital for life, breaking down organic matter and aiding digestion. Most of the 1,600 species are saprotrophs found in soil and intestines.

Importance

Bacteria are important in a positive way but they also can cause disease in plants can be disastrous. Entire crops can be lost within days as bacteria multiply very rapidly in the plant. Symptoms can range from necrotic sunken spots, wilting and the formation of cankers, to fruit rot and death.

Spread

Most plant-pathogenic bacteria multiply inside plants, on leaves, or in plant debris; some survive in soil. They spread via infected material or water. Control is hard without chemicals—strict hygiene is the best prevention.

How can you recognize bacteria?

Identifying bacteria is hard as they lack clear external traits. DNA-based molecular tools are essential for accurate diagnosis. Some have cilia for movement, and they reproduce by dividing into two daughter cells.

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