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Didymellaceae species associated with tea plant (Camellia sinensis) in China

Summary

Researchers identified 25 different fungal species from the Didymellaceae family affecting tea plants across China, including 6 previously unknown species. These fungi cause leaf blight disease that damages tea crops. Tests showed that some species are more harmful than others, with Epicoccum anhuiense being the most damaging and Epicoccum puerense the least damaging to tea leaves.

Background

Tea plant (Camellia sinensis) is an important commercial crop worldwide. Didymellaceae fungi can cause leaf blight disease of tea plants. The family Didymellaceae is extremely species-rich with over 5400 species in 44 accepted genera.

Objective

To systematically identify and characterize Didymellaceae species associated with tea plant leaf blight disease in China using multi-locus phylogenetic analysis and morphological characteristics. To evaluate the pathogenicity of isolates to determine dominant species causing leaf blight.

Results

Isolates were identified as 25 species in 6 genera including 19 known species and 6 novel species (D. yunnanensis, E. anhuiense, E. jingdongense, E. puerense, N. yunnanensis, N. zhejiangensis). D. segeticola was the most dominant species. E. anhuiense showed the strongest virulence while E. puerense showed the weakest virulence on tea leaves.

Conclusion

This comprehensive study revealed significant biodiversity of Didymellaceae on tea plants in China, identifying both known and novel species. The pathogenicity results provide insight into dominant species associated with leaf blight disease and can inform disease management strategies for tea cultivation.
  • Published in:MycoKeys,
  • Study Type:Descriptive Survey with Phylogenetic Analysis,
  • Source: 10.3897/mycokeys.105.119536; PMID: 38846425
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