Quick Field Test for Apple and Pear Disease

A new test can spot the bacteria that harms apples, pears and other related plants in just minutes. The method mixes a fast DNA‑amplifying step called recombinase polymerase amplification with a simple paper strip that shows results in the field. Scientists have noticed this pathogen in more than 60 countries, and catching it early is key to stopping its spread. Traditional lab tests need machines and take hours or days, making them hard to use on farms or in remote areas.The new assay works at room temperature and needs only a small sample of plant tissue or sap. After a short incubation, the strip turns color if the bacteria is present, giving growers an instant answer. Because it is cheap and portable, farmers can test many trees without waiting for lab results. This quick detection helps decide when to apply treatments or remove infected plants, reducing the need for harsh chemicals and protecting future harvests. The technology shows promise for other plant diseases as well, offering a template for rapid, on‑site diagnostics that keep crops safe and ecosystems healthy.