Cephalosporium gramineum

Cephalosporium gramineum is a fungal species belonging to the Cephalosporium genus. It is a pathogenic fungus that primarily affects cereal crops, including wheat, barley, and rye.

Taxonomy

The species was first described in the scientific literature in the 19th century. It belongs to the Cephalosporium genus, which is part of the Nectriaceae family. The genus name 'Cephalosporium' comes from the Greek words for 'head' and 'spore', referring to the characteristic shape of the fungus's spores.

Description

Cephalosporium gramineum is a filamentous fungus, meaning it forms long, thread-like structures called hyphae. The hyphae of C. gramineum are typically white to cream in color and can form a dense network known as a mycelium. The fungus produces spores in structures called conidia, which are borne on the ends of specialized hyphae called conidiophores.

Pathogenicity

Cephalosporium gramineum is a significant pathogen of cereal crops. It causes a disease known as Cephalosporium stripe, which is characterized by yellowing and wilting of the plant's leaves, as well as the formation of dark stripes on the stems. The disease can result in significant yield losses, particularly in wheat crops.

The fungus is soil-borne and can survive in the soil for several years. It infects plants through the roots and then spreads upwards through the plant's vascular system. The disease is typically more severe in wet, cool conditions.

Management

Management of Cephalosporium stripe involves a combination of cultural practices and chemical control. Crop rotation with non-host plants can help to reduce the amount of fungus in the soil. Fungicides can also be used to control the disease, although resistance to some fungicides has been reported.

See also

• List of wheat diseases
• List of barley diseases
• List of rye diseases