Cochliobolus lunatus

Cochliobolus lunatus is a species of fungus that belongs to the Pleosporaceae family. It is a plant pathogen that causes diseases in a variety of crops, including maize, sorghum, and rice. The fungus is known for its ability to produce mycotoxins, which can be harmful to both plants and animals.

Taxonomy

The genus Cochliobolus is part of the Pleosporales order, which includes several other important plant pathogens. The species lunatus was first described in 1959 by the mycologist M.B. Ellis. The name lunatus refers to the crescent-shaped conidia produced by the fungus.

Morphology

Cochliobolus lunatus is characterized by its dark, septate hyphae and crescent-shaped conidia. The conidia are typically multicellular and have a smooth, dark wall. The fungus also produces ascospores, which are released from asci in a flask-shaped ascocarp.

Pathogenicity

Cochliobolus lunatus is a necrotrophic pathogen, meaning it kills host tissue and then feeds on the dead cells. It can infect a wide range of plants, causing diseases such as leaf spot, root rot, and stalk rot. The fungus produces mycotoxins that can cause damage to the plant and can also be harmful to animals that consume infected crops.

Management

Management of Cochliobolus lunatus involves a combination of cultural practices, chemical control, and breeding for resistance. Cultural practices include crop rotation and removal of infected plant debris. Chemical control typically involves the use of fungicides. Breeding for resistance is a long-term strategy that involves selecting plant varieties that are less susceptible to the fungus.

See also

• Cochliobolus
• Pleosporaceae
• Mycotoxin
• Plant pathology