Cylindrocladium ilicicola

Cylindrocladium ilicicola is a species of fungus in the family Nectriaceae. It is a plant pathogen that primarily affects members of the Ilex genus, particularly Ilex opaca, commonly known as the American holly.

Taxonomy

The species was first described in 1966 by American mycologists Robert A. Shoemaker and James M. Waterston. The genus name Cylindrocladium refers to the cylindrical shape of the conidia, while the species name ilicicola indicates its association with Ilex species.

Description

Cylindrocladium ilicicola is characterized by its production of cylindrical, multi-septate conidia that are borne on simple or branched conidiophores. The hyphae are typically hyaline and septate.

Pathogenicity

Cylindrocladium ilicicola is known to cause a disease known as Cylindrocladium leaf spot and blight in Ilex species. The fungus infects the leaves, causing necrotic spots that eventually lead to leaf drop. In severe infections, it can cause significant defoliation and decline in the host plant.

Management

Management of Cylindrocladium ilicicola involves a combination of cultural practices and chemical control. Cultural practices include the removal and destruction of infected plant material, and the avoidance of overhead irrigation which can spread the fungus. Chemical control typically involves the use of fungicides.

See also

• List of Cylindrocladium species
• Plant pathology

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