Modelling the mechanisms of olive die back caused by Xylella fastidiosa biofilms

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Xylella fastidiosa is a globally important bacterial pathogen that attacks many plants of economic importance. Initially it was restricted to the Americas, but in 2013 it was detected in Lecce, Italy in 2013. Since the initial outbreak, it has invaded large swathes of olives in southern Italy, and is of great concern throughout Mediterranean basin and beyond. Exploring the mechanisms by which the bacterium grows within the host plant, forming a biofilm, is critical for our understanding future control methods. This project will develop mathematical models of biofilm and associated plant disease spread related to Xylella fastidiosa.