Cephaleuros parasiticus

Cephaleuros parasiticus is a species of algae that is parasitic on plants. It is a member of the Trentepohliaceae family and is known to cause disease in a variety of plant species.

Description

Cephaleuros parasiticus is a filamentous, green alga that forms a thallus composed of branched filaments. The thallus is typically found on the surface of leaves, stems, and fruit, where it appears as a reddish-brown or greenish discoloration. The alga produces sporangia, which are structures that produce and release spores. These spores are capable of infecting new host plants.

Life Cycle

The life cycle of Cephaleuros parasiticus involves both asexual and sexual reproduction. The asexual phase involves the production of sporangia, which release spores that can infect new hosts. The sexual phase involves the production of gametes, which fuse to form a zygote that develops into a new thallus.

Host Range and Distribution

Cephaleuros parasiticus has a wide host range that includes many species of plants. It is particularly common on tea plants, but can also infect citrus trees, coffee plants, and many other species. The alga is found in tropical and subtropical regions around the world, including parts of Asia, Africa, and the Americas.

Disease Symptoms and Management

Infection with Cephaleuros parasiticus can cause a variety of symptoms in plants, including leaf spots, fruit spots, and stem cankers. These symptoms can reduce the aesthetic value of ornamental plants and can reduce the yield of crop plants. Management of the disease involves the use of fungicides and the removal of infected plant material.

Economic Importance

The economic importance of Cephaleuros parasiticus is primarily due to its impact on crop plants. Infection can reduce the yield of important crops such as tea and citrus, which can have significant economic consequences.