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Unveiling Species Diversity of Plectosphaerellaceae (Sordariomycetes) Fungi Involved in Rhizome and Root Rots of Ginger in Shandong Province, China

Summary

Researchers in China identified four species of fungi causing serious rot diseases in ginger plants, including two completely new species and one previously unreported in China. These fungi were found in Shandong Province, a major ginger-growing region, and were confirmed to cause the disease through laboratory experiments. The study helps farmers understand and potentially manage these devastating ginger diseases that can destroy up to 100% of crops.

Background

Ginger is economically important globally and represents approximately 15% of global output from China. Rhizome rot is a serious threat causing 20-100% yield losses, with multiple fungal pathogens implicated. Plectosphaerellaceae fungi are recognized as aggressive plant pathogens, but their effects on ginger have been poorly understood.

Objective

To identify and characterize Plectosphaerellaceae species associated with ginger rhizome and root rots in Shandong Province, China using morphological, phylogenetic, and pathogenicity analyses.

Results

Identified two novel Musidium species (M. shandongensis and M. zingiberis), one newly recorded species (Gibellulopsis serrae), and one new host record (Plectosphaerella cucumerina) from ginger. All four species formed distinct phylogenetic clades and caused characteristic symptoms including wilt, leaf yellowing, and rhizome necrosis in pathogenicity tests.

Conclusion

This study broadens knowledge on Plectosphaerellaceae diversity associated with ginger and reveals these fungi as serious threats to ginger cultivation in China. The findings represent the first identification and characterization of Gibellulopsis, Musidium, and Plectosphaerella species associated with ginger in China.
  • Published in:Microorganisms,
  • Study Type:Taxonomic and Pathogenic Study,
  • Source: PMID: 41011511, DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms13092180
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