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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 identified a fungus called Colletotrichum kahawae causing a serious disease called anthracnose in buckwheat crops for the first time. The fungus also has the potential to infect other important crops like wheat, oats, potatoes, and corn. Scientists determined the ideal conditions for this fungus to grow and tested its ability to infect different plants. This discovery will help farmers develop better strategies to prevent and manage this disease in buckwheat and other crops.

Background

Buckwheat is a nutritionally valuable crop native to Yunnan, China. In 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 causing anthracnose in buckwheat.

Objective

This study aimed to isolate, identify, and characterize the anthracnose pathogen affecting buckwheat crops in Yunnan, China. The researchers sought to determine the taxonomic status, biological characteristics, and host range of the pathogen.

Results

The representative isolate SM02 was identified as Colletotrichum kahawae based on morphological and molecular characterization. Optimal growth conditions were determined to be 12L:12D photoperiod, 25°C temperature, pH 7.0, glucose as carbon source, and beef extract as nitrogen source. Host range testing showed the pathogen could infect maize, wheat, oats, and potatoes.

Conclusion

C. kahawae causes anthracnose in buckwheat in Yunnan, China, representing the first report of this pathogen on buckwheat. The biological characterization provides a foundation for implementing disease management strategies. Future research should focus on control strategies, resistant varieties, and assessment of the pathogen’s host range on economically important plants in the region.
  • Published in:Journal of Fungi,
  • Study Type:Research Study,
  • Source: 10.3390/jof11090633, PMID: 41003179
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