Dematophora necatrix

Dematophora necatrix is a species of fungus in the family Roselliniaceae. It is a plant pathogen that causes white root rot in a variety of crops and ornamental plants. The fungus is known for its destructive potential and wide host range, which includes fruit trees, ornamental plants, and some field crops.

Taxonomy

The fungus was first described in 1887 by Heinrich Anton de Bary, a German mycologist and plant pathologist. The species name necatrix is derived from the Latin word for "killer", reflecting its pathogenic nature.

Description

Dematophora necatrix is characterized by its white, cottony mycelium that covers the roots and lower stem of infected plants. The fungus produces conidia that are hyaline, smooth, and elliptical in shape. It also forms sclerotia, which are hardened masses of mycelium that can survive in the soil for several years.

Pathogenicity

Dematophora necatrix is a soil-borne pathogen that infects plants through the roots. The fungus causes white root rot, a disease characterized by the decay of the roots and lower stem, wilting, and eventual death of the plant. The disease is particularly severe in fruit trees such as apple, peach, and cherry, but can also affect a wide range of other plants.

Management

Control of Dematophora necatrix involves a combination of cultural practices, chemical treatments, and biological control. Cultural practices include crop rotation, sanitation, and the use of resistant varieties. Chemical control involves the use of fungicides, while biological control involves the use of beneficial microorganisms that can suppress the growth of the fungus.

See also

• List of apple diseases
• List of peach diseases
• List of cherry diseases