Definition

Noun 1. A genus of Gram-negative bacteria: Xanthomonas is a scientific name for a genus of bacteria. These bacteria are rod-shaped and are known to be plant pathogens, meaning they cause diseases in plants. 2. Characterized by yellow pigment: A key identifying feature of this genus is its production of a yellow, water-insoluble pigment.

Usage

• is used almost exclusively in scientific, agricultural, and botanical contexts.
• It is typically followed by a species name to specify the type of plant disease.
• As a genus name, it is conventionally italicized in print and capitalized in writing.

Examples

• The tomato crop was destroyed by a strain of .
• Scientists are studying the genome of to develop resistant plant varieties.
• is a species that causes black rot in cruciferous vegetables.

Advanced Usage

• "Xanthomonas infection": Refers to a plant disease caused by bacteria from this genus.
  • The farmer identified the leaf spot as a classic Xanthomonas infection.
• "Xanthomonas-resistant": Describes a plant variety bred or engineered to withstand infection by these bacteria.
  • Growers are advised to plant Xanthomonas-resistant bean cultivars.

Variants and Related Words

• Xanthomonad (n): A member of the genus or the related family .
• Xanthomonadal (adj): Relating to or characteristic of the genus.

Synonyms

• Plant-pathogenic bacteria (general term)
• Phytopathogen (general term for a plant pathogen)

Notes on Meaning

The word Xanthomonas has a single, specific meaning in scientific taxonomy. It does not have different everyday meanings. Its definition is precise and technical.

Noun

1. a genus of bacteria similar to Pseudomonas but producing a yellow pigment that is not soluble in water