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First Report of Fusarium avenaceum Causing Blight on Juniperus formosana in China: Morphological and Molecular Characterization

Summary

Juniperus formosana is a beautiful ornamental plant used in landscaping. In October 2024, researchers discovered that a fungus called Fusarium avenaceum was causing a blight disease on these plants in Kaili City, China, making the needles turn yellow and wither. Through detailed examination of the fungus under a microscope and DNA testing, scientists confirmed this is the first time this particular fungus has been found causing this disease on Juniperus formosana in China.

Background

Juniperus formosana is an important ornamental and medicinal plant species. Blight disease poses a significant threat to Juniperus species, causing severe withering of tender shoots and diminishing ornamental value. This study aimed to identify the pathogenic fungi causing blight on J. formosana in China.

Objective

To identify and characterize the pathogenic fungi causing blight disease on Juniperus formosana in Kaili City, Guizhou Province, China through morphological examination and molecular analysis. To provide scientific basis for effective disease prevention and control.

Results

The pathogenic fungus was identified as Fusarium avenaceum based on morphological characteristics and 100% ITS sequence similarity with F. avenaceum in GenBank. Pathogenicity tests confirmed the isolate as the causative agent through Koch’s postulates. The fungus produced white and purple-red tomentose aerial mycelia with microconidia measuring 3.05-18.80 μm × 1.75-2.39 μm and macroconidia measuring 24.05-53.80 μm × 3.35-6.09 μm.

Conclusion

This is the first report of Fusarium avenaceum causing blight on Juniperus formosana in China. The identification and characterization of this pathogen provides a foundation for future in-depth studies and disease prevention strategies for J. formosana cultivation.
  • Published in:Biology (Basel),
  • Study Type:First Report / Pathogen Identification Study,
  • Source: PMID: 40282250
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