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Diversity and Pathogenicity of Colletotrichum Species Causing Coffee Anthracnose in China

Summary

Researchers identified seven different fungal species causing anthracnose disease on coffee plants in China. Two of these species, Colletotrichum nupharicola and C. cliviicola, were reported for the first time as coffee pathogens. All seven species were capable of infecting coffee leaves, though with varying degrees of severity. These findings will help coffee farmers develop better strategies to control this major disease.

Background

Coffee is a major traded commodity globally, with arabica and robusta being dominant species. Coffee anthracnose caused by Colletotrichum species is a major constraint on coffee production in Southeast Asia, India, and China. The genus Colletotrichum is recognized as one of the top 10 most important plant pathogenic fungi globally.

Objective

To characterize and identify Colletotrichum species causing coffee anthracnose in China using phenotypic traits, MAT1-2 gene analysis, multi-locus phylogenetic analysis, and pathogenicity assays. This study aimed to enhance understanding of the Colletotrichum species complex associated with coffee disease.

Results

Seven Colletotrichum species from five species complexes were identified: C. siamense, C. nupharicola, C. theobromicola, C. karstii, C. cliviicola, C. brevisporum, and C. gigasporum. C. nupharicola and C. cliviicola were reported for the first time causing coffee anthracnose worldwide. Pathogenicity tests confirmed all seven species could infect coffee leaves with infection rates ranging from 8.5% to 100%.

Conclusion

This polyphasic approach successfully identified diverse Colletotrichum species causing coffee anthracnose in China. The findings provide valuable insights for developing effective disease management strategies and highlight the importance of monitoring Colletotrichum populations in coffee plantations.
  • Published in:Microorganisms,
  • Study Type:Observational Study,
  • Source: 10.3390/microorganisms13030512, PMID: 40142405
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