Why PCM-03?
Growers worldwide are facing severe loss and damage due to bacterial wilt disease caused by Clavibacter michiganensis. With an annual world production exceeding 180 million tonnes, tomatoes are the most economically relevant host of this pathogen.
The disease, as the name suggests, causes the plant to wilt because the xylem becomes clogged. This disrupts water uptake and leads to plant wilting. Young plants are particularly vulnerable. Because the incubation period can be up to three months, this disease often spreads invisibly through mechanical transmission. An advanced infection can quickly result in complete die-off. Moreover, the bacterium survives easily in the soil or on plant residues, threatening future crops.
PCM-03 is an innovative and curative solution based on bacteriophages that specifically target the bacterium Clavibacter michiganensis.
How does PCM-03 work?
Bacteriophages – or phages for short – are viruses that exclusively attack bacteria. These natural enemies of bacteria target bacterial diseases. The bacteriophages in PCM-03 are only active against Clavibacter michiganensis. Thanks to its specific mode of action, the product remains completely safe for humans, animals and the environment. Phages occur naturally and have a short lifespan outside their host. All these properties make PCM-03 highly sustainable alternative for controlling Clavibacter michiganensis in tomatoes.
