Whole genome sequencing and pangenomic analysis of Ralstonia solanacearum phylotype II strains from Ecuador reveal conserved secretion systems and virulence determinates associated with Bacterial wilt in plantain
Moko disease, also known as bacterial wilt, caused by Ralstonia solanacearum phylotype II, is one of the most destructive diseases affecting plantain and banana in Ecuador. Since its first detection in 2013, it has spread to more than fifteen provinces, destroying thousands of hectares and affecting the livelihoods of small-scale farmers. In this study, we used Oxford Nanopore Technologies (ONT) sequencing to read the complete genomes of four strains of this bacterium isolated from plantain plantations in Ecuador. We successfully assembled complete, high-quality genomes, allowing us to compare them with reference strains from South America and build a local pangenome. We identified the secretion systems the bacterium uses to infect the plant, including the Type III Secretion System and its arsenal of effectors. This genomic information provides a foundation for developing more effective and sustainable management strategies against Moko disease, as well as molecular tools for early detection.