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First Report of Colletotrichum kahawae Causing Anthracnose on Buckwheat (Fagopyrum tataricum) in China and Biological Characterization of the Pathogen

Summary

Researchers in China discovered that a fungus called Colletotrichum kahawae is causing a serious disease called anthracnose on buckwheat crops in Yunnan Province. This is the first time this particular fungus has been found on buckwheat, though it’s already known for causing disease on coffee plants worldwide. The scientists characterized how this fungus grows best under certain conditions and tested whether it could infect other important crops like corn, wheat, and potatoes, finding it could potentially harm these crops too.

Background

Buckwheat is a nutritionally valuable crop native to Yunnan, China, but large-scale cultivation has led to increased plant diseases, particularly anthracnose. In June 2024, severe anthracnose was observed in buckwheat cultivation areas in Huize County, Yunnan Province. Previously, only Colletotrichum liriopes and C. xishanense had been reported as anthracnose pathogens on buckwheat.

Objective

To isolate and identify the anthracnose pathogen causing disease on buckwheat in Yunnan, China, and to characterize its biological properties including optimal growth conditions and host range.

Results

Phylogenetic analysis identified the SM02 isolate as Colletotrichum kahawae, representing the first report of this pathogen on buckwheat. Optimal growth conditions were determined as 12L:12D photoperiod, 25°C temperature, pH 7.0, glucose as carbon source, and beef extract as nitrogen source. Host range testing showed C. kahawae could potentially infect important field crops including maize, wheat, oats, and potatoes.

Conclusion

C. kahawae causes anthracnose on buckwheat in China, potentially threatening buckwheat production. The biological characterization provides a foundation for monitoring disease occurrence and developing integrated pest management strategies. Future studies should focus on control strategies, resistant variety selection, and investigation of C. kahawae host range on other economically important plants in Yunnan.
  • Published in:Journal of Fungi,
  • Study Type:First Report / Identification Study,
  • Source: PMID: 41003179, DOI: 10.3390/jof11090633
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