Since the detection of Xylella fastidiosa (Xf) in Italy, European research interest into this bacterium has considerably increased. Research mainly focusses on Xf biology, evolution and epidemiology. However, managing the spread of Xf also requires the mobilization of other actors, whose action supports research driven strategy. Indeed, people who are directly impacted (arboriculturalist, winegrowers) must be involved to slow down the spread of Xf. We propose an interdisciplinary work that combines the production of knowledge in ecology with the analysis of the construction, use and diffusion of this knowledge to stakeholders using social studies of science and technology practices. In ecology, field observations, statistical and biomolecular analyses are conducted to characterize plant - insect vector and insect vector - Xf interactions. In sociology, an analysis of scientific production is carried out through the implementation of participatory observation to understand how scientific activities are linked with epidemiological surveillance. In addition, an analysis of the preparedness of stakeholders (professionals from agriculture, research and institutions involved in the French epidemiological surveillance system) based on semi-directive interviews is implemented. This interdisciplinary study, whose approach and first results will be presented has two objectives i) to propose prophylactic and control methods to slow down or prevent the establishment of Xf in the uncontaminated territories and ii) to provide recommendations for the dissemination and implementation of these practices with an evaluation of the preparedness in France. This approach could also lead to a reflexive understanding of how sciences and public management might be articulated to understand Xf disease as a socio-pathosystem.

FR; PDF; jean-pierre.rossi@inrae.fr