Black foot disease of grapevine

Black foot disease of grapevine is a serious phytopathological condition affecting grapevines, particularly in the viticulture industry. The disease is caused by several species of fungi, including Cylindrocarpon and Ilyonectria, which are soil-borne and can persist in vineyard soils for many years.

Symptoms

The symptoms of Black foot disease are often observed in young grapevines, typically within the first five years of planting. The most characteristic symptom is the presence of black, necrotic lesions on the roots and the base of the trunk, giving the disease its name. Other symptoms include reduced vigor, chlorosis of the leaves, and in severe cases, plant death.

Pathogenesis

The fungi responsible for Black foot disease are necrotrophic pathogens, meaning they kill host tissue and then feed on the dead cells. The fungi produce mycotoxins that cause cell death, and then use enzymes to break down the dead tissue for nutrients. The disease is spread through the movement of infested soil or infected plant material.

Management

Management of Black foot disease involves a combination of cultural practices and chemical treatments. Cultural practices include the use of clean planting material, proper site preparation, and good water management. Chemical treatments include the use of fungicides and soil fumigants. However, these treatments are not always effective, and research is ongoing to develop more sustainable management strategies.

Impact

Black foot disease has a significant impact on the viticulture industry, as it can lead to reduced vineyard productivity and increased replanting costs. The disease is a particular problem in regions with a long history of grapevine cultivation, such as Europe and California, where the pathogens have had time to build up in the soil.

See also

• Grape diseases
• Viticulture
• Phytopathology