UWA Reports Global Hotspots of Plant Bacterial Pathogens

A study led by experts from the University of Western Australia mapped pathogen hotspots worldwide, reported the mechanism by which soils block disease, and highlighted climate-driven risks.

“We identified 32 dominant pathogens by studying 1,602 soil metagenomes from 59 countries…Our study found global hotspots of plant pathogens occur in warm ecosystems and agricultural soils, whereas high microbial diversity, increased soil organic carbon, and colder climatic conditions are associated with lower pathogen prevalence,” said UWA Professor Brajesh Singh.

Driven by the severe impact of plant pathogens on global food security, a team of experts conducted a study to develop innovative detection tools for pathogens, beneficial microbes, and functional genes. Using predictive modeling, the researchers demonstrated that climate change is poised to escalate these risks, with several dominant bacterial pathogens expected to expand their geographic ranges under future climate scenarios.

According to Prof. Singh, identifying the global distribution of major pathogens and the environmental and management practices that enhance or suppress pathogen abundance is vital to reducing the impacts of plant disease on food production worldwide.

Find out more from UWA.