Researchers in China discovered a new fungus called Setophoma henanensis that causes root rot in peanuts. This fungus was found in peanut fields across Henan Province and can also infect other crops like corn, wheat, and peppers. The good news is that the fungus is sensitive to commonly used fungicides, which can help farmers control the disease.
Tea oil plants in China’s Sichuan Province are being infected by three types of fungi that cause serious diseases like leaf spots and blighting. Researchers identified a new fungal species and found that two previously known species can also infect tea oil plants. All three fungi were tested for their ability to cause disease, and they successfully infected tea oil plant leaves under laboratory conditions.
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.
Researchers discovered that Zephyranthes candida, a popular ornamental plant, can be infected by two types of fungi: Sclerotinia sclerotiorum and Sclerotinia minor, causing a serious white mold disease. The study identified these pathogens and determined that they grow best in cool, acidic conditions with specific nutrients. This information will help gardeners and farmers develop better strategies to prevent and manage this disease on their plants.
Cherry blossom trees in Korea are commonly affected by shot-hole disease, which causes holes in leaves and reduces flowering. Researchers found that four different fungi cause this disease, not just one as previously thought: Alternaria, Diaporthe, Epicoccum, and Botryosphaeria. The types of fungi vary by region and between urban and rural areas, suggesting different management strategies may be needed in different locations.
Pomegranate growers in Italy are facing a serious disease called wood decay syndrome that kills young trees. Researchers found that multiple fungi, especially Neofusicoccum parvum and several Diaporthe species, working together cause this disease. Cold winter temperatures appear to weaken the trees, making them vulnerable to these fungal infections. Using both traditional lab methods and modern DNA analysis, scientists identified the fungi and confirmed which ones are most dangerous.
Scientists in Peru discovered that a fungus called Fusarium suttonianum is causing root rot disease in sacha inchi plants, an important crop known for its omega-3 rich seeds. Using both traditional microscopy and modern DNA testing, researchers confirmed this fungus as the culprit and demonstrated it can cause the same disease symptoms in healthy plants. This discovery is important for farmers because it provides the first scientific identification of this disease threat in Peru, enabling the development of better disease prevention and control strategies.