Bacterial spot

Xanthomonas vesicatoria is a phytopathogenic bacterium that causes bacterial spot, a disease of economic importance in solanaceous crops such as Solanum lycopersicum (tomato) and Capsicum spp. (bell pepper). This bacterium infects leaves, stems, and fruits, producing small water-soaked lesions that develop into necrotic spots with yellow halos. On fruits, it causes rough, corky spots that reduce their commercial quality.

Bacterial spot weakens the foliage, promotes premature leaf drop, and exposes fruits to sunscald, decreasing productivity and market value. Its spread is favored by warm, humid conditions, especially during rain and sprinkler irrigation. Integrated management with preventive practices, resistant varieties, and effective biosolutions is key to reducing incidence and protecting crop health.