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SIGNS OF BACTERIA

Bacterial wilt of cucurbits can be relatively easily diagnosed in the field. Cut a wilted vine near the crown of the plant. Hold the two cut pieces apart for several seconds, then rub the cut ends together. Next slowly draw the two pieces apart. If the bacterial wilt pathogen is present, you will see slimy strands (they look like spider silk) stretching between the two vine pieces (see arrow). These stands are composed of plant sap and bacterial cells, held together by a sticky substance (called LPS) that is produced by and serves as a protective coat for the bacterium.