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Diaporthe foeniculina and D. eres, in addition to D. ampelina, may cause Phomopsis cane and leaf spot disease in grapevine

Summary

Researchers found that three different fungal species, not just one, cause a disease called Phomopsis cane and leaf spot in grapevines grown in Southern Europe. While Diaporthe ampelina remains the primary culprit, two other species (D. eres and D. foeniculina) can also cause the same disease symptoms. Interestingly, these different fungi prefer different temperatures for growth, which means farmers may need to adjust their disease management strategies based on which species is present in their vineyards.

Background

Phomopsis cane and leaf spot (PCLS) disease affects grapevines worldwide and has been historically associated with Diaporthe ampelina. However, typical disease symptoms including bleaching and black pycnidia have been observed with other Diaporthe species, suggesting a more complex etiology than previously understood.

Objective

This study aimed to molecularly identify Diaporthe isolates from grapevine canes showing PCLS symptoms across southern Europe, characterize their morphological responses to temperature, and determine their pathogenicity through artificial inoculation experiments.

Results

Four Diaporthe species were identified: D. ampelina (most frequent), D. eres, D. foeniculina, and D. rudis. D. ampelina was the most aggressive pathogen, but D. eres and D. foeniculina also demonstrated pathogenicity on green shoots and leaves. D. eres and D. foeniculina produced pycnidia and alpha conidia at lower temperatures than D. ampelina, expanding the range of environmental conditions favorable for disease development.

Conclusion

PCLS etiology should be reconsidered as a complex disease caused by multiple Diaporthe species. While D. ampelina remains the most important causal agent, D. foeniculina and D. eres should be recognized as significant pathogens. The different temperature requirements among species have substantial implications for PCLS management and forecasting models.
  • Published in:Frontiers in Plant Science,
  • Study Type:Experimental Study,
  • Source: PMID: 39286838
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