Cylindrocladium pteridis

Cylindrocladium pteridis is a species of fungus in the family Nectriaceae. It is a plant pathogen that primarily affects ferns, particularly those in the genus Pteridium.

Taxonomy

Cylindrocladium pteridis was first described in 1961 by mycologists John N. Couch and George L. Peterson. The genus name Cylindrocladium refers to the cylindrical shape of the conidia, while the species name pteridis refers to the host plant, Pteridium.

Description

The fungus produces hyphae that are hyaline and septate. The conidia are cylindrical in shape, hence the genus name. They are typically borne in clusters on conidiophores. The fungus also produces chlamydospores, which are thick-walled, resistant structures that allow the fungus to survive in adverse conditions.

Pathogenicity

Cylindrocladium pteridis is a pathogen of ferns, particularly those in the genus Pteridium. It causes a disease known as Cylindrocladium leaf spot, which is characterized by the appearance of brown, necrotic spots on the leaves of the fern. The disease can lead to significant losses in fern nurseries and in the wild.

Management

Management of Cylindrocladium pteridis 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
• Fungal plant pathogens and diseases