Phytoplasmas are nonculturable pleomorphic prokaryotes associated to plant diseases worldwide. Lethal yellowing of coconut palms disease has high economic impact of the palm population affected in several countries. Phoenix dactilyfera... more
Phytoplasmas are nonculturable pleomorphic prokaryotes associated to plant diseases worldwide. Lethal yellowing of coconut palms disease has high economic impact of the palm population affected in several countries. Phoenix dactilyfera and Sabal mexicana plants showed symptoms of lethal decline in central Mexico at locations that were approximately 500 km from the coast and altitudes ~ 1700 masl which are unusual for putative lethal yellowing. We identified two strains that fit within the group 16SrI, subgroup D. This is the first report of the presence of the LY phytoplasmas far from the coasts and at extreme high altitudes. The vector Myndus crudus is only present in warm areas due to its high susceptibility to low temperatures. Our findings could indicate the presence of a new unknown vector or that a new biotype of M. crudus is spreading in central Mexico
