dadantii

Dadantii is a taxonomic epithet used in the binomial names of certain bacteria, most notably the plant-pathogenic Dickeya dadantii. Dickeya dadantii is a Gram-negative, rod-shaped bacterium in the family Pectobacteriaceae, order Enterobacterales. It is a plant pathogen that causes soft rot by producing cell wall–degrading enzymes, leading to maceration of tissues in infected plants. The bacterium has a broad host range, including crops such as potatoes, carrots, and cucumbers, as well as ornamental plants like carnations and dahlias.

Infection typically occurs through wounds or natural openings, and spread is facilitated by contaminated water, irrigation systems, tools, and infected plant material. Disease symptoms include soft, water-soaked areas that progress to mushy necrosis, often accompanied by a foul odor. Dickeya dadantii can survive in soil and plant debris and may spread systemically within an affected plant.

Taxonomic notes reflect historical reclassifications in this group of bacteria. Dickeya dadantii was formerly referred to as Erwinia chrysanthemi and has been associated with other designations such as Pectobacterium chrysanthemi in different taxonomic systems. The genus Dickeya groups soft-rot bacteria that produce pectinases and related enzymes, distinguishing them from other related genera.

Control and management rely on integrated strategies, including sanitation and destruction of infected material, crop rotation, disinfection of tools and equipment, and careful water management. In some cases, hot-water treatment of planting material and certification programs help reduce the spread of infection, while resistant cultivars and vigilant monitoring support long-term disease management.