plant disease – mycolab.ai

Biology and epidemiology of Diaporthe amygdali: understanding how environmental factors influence fungal growth, sporulation, infection and lesion development on almond

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This study investigates how temperature and rainfall affect a fungal disease that damages almond trees. Researchers found that the disease is most problematic during spring and autumn when rain is frequent and temperatures are moderate to warm. The pathogen can infect almond trees across a wide temperature range, but requires extended moisture periods for successful infection. These findings help farmers understand when and why this disease occurs, enabling better timing of preventive treatments.

Chitosan-mediated copper nanohybrid attenuates the virulence of a necrotrophic fungal pathogen Macrophomina phaseolina

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Researchers developed tiny copper particles coated with chitosan (a natural compound from shellfish) that effectively kill a destructive fungus called Macrophomina phaseolina, which damages hundreds of plant species worldwide. When used at the right concentration, these nanoparticles completely stopped the fungus from growing while causing minimal damage to plants. This innovation offers a promising natural alternative to traditional chemical fungicides for protecting crops while being more environmentally friendly and sustainable.

CBC Complex Regulates Hyphal Growth, Sclerotial Quantity, and Pathogenicity in the Necrotrophic Fungus Botrytis cinerea

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Scientists studied how two proteins (BcCbp20 and BcCbp80) work together in gray mold fungus, which destroys crops worldwide. These proteins control how the fungus grows, makes spores, forms long-term survival structures, and causes disease. The findings show that BcCbp80 is more important for growth and infection, while BcCbp20 helps the fungus survive stress. Understanding these proteins could help develop new antifungal treatments.

Microminutinin, a Fused Bis-Furan Coumarin from Murraya euchrestifolia, Exhibits Strong Broad-Spectrum Antifungal Activity by Disrupting Cell Membranes and Walls

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Researchers discovered a natural compound called microminutinin from a plant used in traditional medicine. This compound shows strong ability to kill various fungal pathogens that damage crops, particularly tea plants. The compound works by breaking down the protective structures of fungal cells, making it a promising candidate for developing safer, plant-based fungicides for agriculture.

Pathogen identification and biological fungicides screening for Plumbago auriculata blight in China

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A newly identified fungal disease caused by Fusarium ipomoeae is harming Plumbago auriculata plants in China. Scientists identified the pathogen using genetic analysis and tested seven plant-based treatments. They found that osthole, a natural compound, effectively controls the disease with 88% success rate, offering an environmentally friendly solution for protecting ornamental plants.

Identification of Pseudocercospora mori as the causal agent of grey leaf spot disease in mulberry (Morus atropurpurea) from various localities in Guangdong Province, China

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Researchers identified a fungus called Pseudocercospora mori as the cause of grey leaf spot disease in mulberry trees grown in Guangdong Province, China. Using advanced DNA sequencing and traditional microscopy, they confirmed this pathogen causes dark spots on mulberry leaves that reduce quality and yield, harming the silk industry that relies on mulberry leaves to feed silkworms. The study developed specific detection methods to help farmers identify and manage this disease in their orchards.

Seimatosporium chinense, a Novel Pestalotioid Fungus Associated with Yellow Rose Branch Canker Disease

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Researchers identified a new fungal disease affecting ornamental yellow roses in China. The disease causes branch cankers (sunken lesions) and was caused by a previously unknown fungus species named Seimatosporium chinense. By examining the fungus under microscopes and analyzing its DNA, scientists distinguished this new species from similar fungi. This discovery helps understand and manage diseases affecting ornamental rose plants.

Pomegranate Woody Mycobiota Associated with Wood Decay

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Pomegranate trees in Italy are suffering from a wood disease that causes cankers and browning of the wood, leading to plant death and crop loss. Researchers identified multiple fungal species responsible for this disease, with Neofusicoccum parvum and Diaporthe species being the main culprits. Cold winter temperatures appear to weaken trees, making them susceptible to these fungal infections. Using advanced DNA analysis along with traditional methods, scientists confirmed which fungi cause the most damage and how the disease develops.

Production of the light-activated elsinochrome phytotoxin in the soybean pathogen Coniothyrium glycines hints at virulence factor

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Researchers discovered that a fungus infecting soybean plants produces red toxins that become dangerous when exposed to light. These toxins generate reactive oxygen species that damage plant cells, causing leaf spots and disease. The study found that disease is worse under light conditions but can still occur in darkness, suggesting multiple attack mechanisms. Understanding this toxin production may help develop better disease management strategies for soybean crops, particularly in Africa where the disease is common.

Phylogenetic diversity of Colletotrichum species (Sordariomycetes, Glomerellales, Glomerellaceae) associated with plant diseases in Thailand

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Researchers identified eight species of Colletotrichum fungi causing plant diseases in Thailand. They discovered two completely new species and found these fungi on 13 additional plant hosts previously unknown. Using DNA analysis, they confirmed the identity of each fungal species and documented their characteristics. This work helps farmers and scientists better identify and manage these damaging plant pathogens.

Research Keyword: plant disease