Elsinoë australis

Elsinoë australis is a species of fungus that belongs to the Elsinoaceae family. It is known for causing a disease known as sweet orange scab, which affects citrus plants, particularly sweet orange trees.

Taxonomy

The species was first described in 1919 by the American mycologist Frederick A. Wolf. It is classified under the genus Elsinoë in the family Elsinoaceae. The genus name Elsinoë is derived from the Greek words elsinos, meaning "whirlwind", and oia, meaning "disease", referring to the rapid spread of diseases caused by species in this genus.

Description

Elsinoë australis is a fungus that produces small, circular, raised lesions on the surfaces of citrus fruits and leaves. The lesions are initially pale in color but darken as the fungus matures. The fungus reproduces through spores, which are spread by wind and rain.

Distribution and habitat

Elsinoë australis is native to Australia, but has since spread to other parts of the world, including North America, South America, and Asia. It is commonly found in regions with warm, humid climates, which are ideal for the growth and spread of the fungus.

Impact

The fungus causes a disease known as sweet orange scab, which primarily affects sweet orange trees, but can also infect other citrus species. The disease results in the formation of scaly lesions on the fruit and leaves, which can reduce the market value of the fruit and weaken the overall health of the tree.

Management

Control of Elsinoë australis involves a combination of cultural practices and chemical treatments. Cultural practices include pruning infected branches and disposing of infected fruit to reduce the source of inoculum. Chemical treatments typically involve the application of fungicides to protect healthy trees and treat infected ones.

See also

• List of citrus diseases
• Citrus production