Cylindrocladium lanceolatum

Cylindrocladium lanceolatum is a species of fungus in the family Nectriaceae. It is a plant pathogen that affects a variety of plant species, causing diseases such as leaf spot and root rot.

Taxonomy

The species was first described in 1962 by the mycologist R.W. Barreto. The genus name Cylindrocladium refers to the cylindrical shape of the conidia, while the species name lanceolatum refers to the lanceolate shape of the conidiophores.

Description

Cylindrocladium lanceolatum is characterized by its cylindrical, one-celled conidia, which are borne on simple or branched conidiophores. The conidia are hyaline and smooth, while the conidiophores are brown and roughened. The fungus also produces chlamydospores, which are thick-walled, resistant structures that allow the fungus to survive in unfavorable conditions.

Pathogenicity

Cylindrocladium lanceolatum is a pathogen of several plant species, causing diseases such as leaf spot and root rot. The fungus infects the plant through wounds or natural openings, and then colonizes the plant tissues, causing necrosis and wilting. The disease can be severe, leading to significant yield losses in affected crops.

Management

Management of Cylindrocladium lanceolatum involves a combination of cultural practices and chemical control. Cultural practices include crop rotation, sanitation, and the use of resistant varieties. Chemical control involves the use of fungicides, which can be applied as a soil drench or foliar spray.

See also

• List of Cylindrocladium species
• Plant pathology