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Polyphasic characterization and mating type allele distribution of Monilinia laxa in Iranian stone fruit orchards

Summary

Brown rot is a serious fungal disease affecting fruit trees like apricots, cherries, and plums. Researchers collected over 400 fungal isolates from Iranian fruit orchards and identified two main species causing the disease, with one species being far more common. By developing new genetic tests, scientists discovered both male and female forms of the fungi exist in equal proportions, suggesting the disease could evolve through sexual reproduction, which has important implications for managing the disease in orchards.

Background

Brown rot disease caused by Monilinia species is a significant fungal disease affecting pome and stone fruit trees globally. In Iran, limited molecular data exists on Monilinia species distribution and genetic diversity despite the country’s prominence in stone fruit production covering over 214,813 hectares.

Objective

This study aimed to identify causal agents of brown rot disease in Iranian stone fruit orchards through morphological and molecular characterization, explore mating type allele distribution using newly designed primers via multiplex PCR, and assess pathogenic potential of isolates.

Results

Of 430 fungal isolates obtained, 403 (93%) belonged to Monilinia laxa and 27 (7%) to M. fructigena. M. laxa was detected across multiple fruit hosts in all five provinces, while M. fructigena was isolated only from cornelian cherry and quince in East Azerbaijan. Both mating types (MAT1-1 and MAT1-2) were detected in both species with approximately 1:1 ratio. All selected isolates demonstrated high pathogenicity, causing visible symptoms within 3-4 days and complete fruit mummification within 23 days.

Conclusion

This study provides comprehensive data on distribution, genetic diversity, mating-type structure, and pathogenic potential of Monilinia species in Iran. M. laxa is the predominant brown rot pathogen in Iranian stone fruit orchards. The newly designed mating type primers enable efficient multiplex detection of both idiomorphs in a single reaction, providing foundational data for population genetics studies and disease management strategies.
  • Published in:Scientific Reports,
  • Study Type:Observational Study,
  • Source: 10.1038/s41598-025-15129-y, PMID: 40790151
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