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Submodule 6: Microbes and Fungi -- the Pathogens
Effects on Agriculture - Additional Information on Plant Pathogens
Nonindigenous pathogens have had a significant effect on American agriculture with some reports estimating that up to 65% of crop losses in the U.S. are due to introduced microbes. It has been estimated that up to a quarter of total crop monetary values is lost due to nonindigenous plant pest annually. With control costs included, this translates into about $30 billion annually according to some estimates. There are several dangerous plant pathogens that have not yet invaded the U.S. so it is critical that meticulous surveillance be conducted at ports of entry.
Because of the potential for serious consequences of damage caused by plant pathogens, there is a great effort to identify and understand these organisms. It is known that climatic conditions are very instrumental in determining the establishment and spread of agricultural plant pathogens, while cropping patterns and local pathogen antagonists can help decrease infestation by certain fungi, bacteria, and viruses. The World Trade Organization (WTO) has established trade regulations to address problems like the spread of plant diseases around the world and follows guidelines determined by the International Plant Protection Convention. Internal U.S. agencies such as APHIS (USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service) conduct risk assessments and, based on sound research, determine those pathogens most likely to cause serious harm to U.S. agriculture (and other enterprises like forestry and horticulture). These pathogens are then targeted for inspections and importation bans.
Nursery inspector (photo courtesy California Department of Food and Agriculture)
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