Ralstonia solanacearum is a complex species is subdivided into five races and five biovars based on host range and utilization/oxidation of certain carbon sources, respectively.
The bacterium enters the host plant through wounded roots or natural openings such as lateral root emergence points, colonizes the root cortex, and subsequently invades the developing xylem vessels.
Once established in the xylem, thepathogen spreads rapidly causing browning of the xylem, foliar epinasty, wilting and plant death.