A proposed nomenclature and classification for plant pathogenic bacteria

Abstract Many names of plant pathogenic bacteria will not be included in the Approved Lists, 1980, if the lists contain only the names of valid species. It is proposed that pathogens which do not have a claim to species rank be classified as pathovars. All validly published names of plant pathogens for which there are authentic cultures are listed here as species or as pathovars. A guide for using the term pathovar at the infrasubspecific level is suggested. Designated type and reference strains are listed, and neotype and new reference strains are suggested where none has been reported elsewhere.