Reinterpretation of the taxonomic position of Xanthomonas maltophilia and taxonomic criteria in this genus. Request for an opinion.

The inclusion of "Pseudomonas maltophilia" Hugh 1981 in the genus Xanthomonas as Xanthomonas maltophilia (Hugh 1981) Swings et al. 1983 is questioned in view of the significant differences between these two taxa. This reclassification is not acceptable if practical means of differentiation in this genus are considered. The proposed alteration of the description of the genus Xanthomonas is also questionable because of the implications for everyday phytobacteriology. In view of the natural similarities, as well as the profound differences, between X. maltophilia and the genus Xanthomonas, we propose that a new genus should be created for X. maltophilia, which could be placed together with the genus Xanthomonas in a separate natural group.