Cochliobolus carbonum

Bipolaris zeicola Northern leaf spot of maize UGA0176078

Cochliobolus carbonum is a fungus that belongs to the Ascomycota division. It is known for being a plant pathogen, particularly affecting maize (Zea mays). This fungus is of significant interest in plant pathology due to its impact on agricultural productivity.

Taxonomy

Cochliobolus carbonum is classified under the kingdom Fungi, phylum Ascomycota, class Dothideomycetes, order Pleosporales, and family Pleosporaceae. The genus Cochliobolus includes several species that are pathogenic to plants.

Morphology

The fungus produces conidia that are typically darkly pigmented and multicellular. These conidia are formed on specialized structures called conidiophores. The mycelium of Cochliobolus carbonum is septate and can grow on various substrates, including plant debris.

Life Cycle

Cochliobolus carbonum has a complex life cycle that includes both sexual and asexual stages. The sexual stage produces ascospores within asci, which are contained in ascocarps. The asexual stage involves the production of conidia, which are responsible for the spread of the fungus.

Pathogenicity

Cochliobolus carbonum is a notable pathogen of maize, causing a disease known as Northern Leaf Blight. The fungus infects the leaves, leading to the formation of necrotic lesions that can coalesce, resulting in significant leaf area loss and reduced photosynthetic capacity. This can lead to decreased crop yields and economic losses for farmers.

Host Interaction

The interaction between Cochliobolus carbonum and its host plants involves the production of phytotoxins that facilitate infection and colonization. The fungus can overcome plant defense mechanisms through various strategies, including the secretion of enzymes that degrade plant cell walls.

Control Measures

Managing Cochliobolus carbonum involves integrated approaches, including the use of resistant varieties of maize, crop rotation, and the application of fungicides. Research is ongoing to develop more effective control strategies and to understand the genetic basis of resistance in maize.

Research Significance

Cochliobolus carbonum serves as a model organism for studying plant-fungal interactions and the molecular mechanisms of pathogenicity. Insights gained from research on this fungus can be applied to other plant pathogens and contribute to the development of disease-resistant crops.

See Also

• Plant pathology
• Fungal diseases of plants
• Maize