Colletotrichum musae

Colletotrichum musae is a species of fungus that belongs to the Colletotrichum genus. It is known for causing anthracnose in bananas, a disease that results in significant economic losses in the banana industry worldwide.

Taxonomy

The species was first described in 1913 by Erwin F. Smith and Charles O. Townsend, two American plant pathologists. The name musae is derived from Musa, the genus name for bananas.

Description

Colletotrichum musae is a fungus that produces spores in a structure called an acervulus. The spores are spread by wind and rain, and can survive in soil and plant debris. The fungus infects the fruit through wounds, and the infection can spread rapidly in warm, humid conditions.

Disease cycle

The disease cycle of Colletotrichum musae begins when the spores land on the banana fruit. The spores germinate and penetrate the fruit's skin, causing dark, sunken lesions. As the disease progresses, the lesions enlarge and coalesce, causing the fruit to rot. The fungus then produces new spores, which are spread to other fruits.

Management

Management of Colletotrichum musae involves a combination of cultural practices and chemical control. Cultural practices include removing infected fruits and plant debris, and avoiding wounding the fruits. Chemical control involves the use of fungicides, but resistance to these chemicals is a growing concern.

Economic impact

Colletotrichum musae causes significant economic losses in the banana industry. The disease reduces the quality and quantity of the fruit, and can also affect the plant's yield in subsequent years. In addition, the cost of managing the disease can be high.

See also

• List of banana diseases
• Colletotrichum