Agrobacterium
Definition
Agrobacterium is a genus of Gram-negative bacteria that primarily lives in soil and is well known for its ability to transfer genetic material to plants.
Importance
A group of soil-dwelling bacteria, most notably Agrobacterium tumefaciens, that causes plant diseases such as crown gall by transferring a segment of its DNA (called T-DNA) into the plant genome and can cause growth inhibition.
Spread
Agrobacterium enters plants through wounds caused by pests, propagation, or crop operations. It spreads rapidly within the plant and can also move through water, so infection via irrigation should not be ruled out.
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