Elsinoë fawcettii

Elsinoë fawcettii is a species of fungus that causes citrus scab, a disease that affects citrus plants. It is named after the American plant pathologist Howard Samuel Fawcett, who made significant contributions to the study of citrus diseases.

Taxonomy

The fungus was first described in 1910 by the American mycologist Joseph Charles Arthur as Sphaceloma fawcettii. It was later transferred to the genus Elsinoë in 1917 by the Dutch mycologist Johannes Bitancourt and the Brazilian mycologist Alfredo Pires de Almeida. The species is classified within the family Elsinoaceae, in the order Myriangiales, class Dothideomycetes, phylum Ascomycota, kingdom Fungi.

Description

Elsinoë fawcettii is a biotrophic fungus, meaning it derives its nutrients from living plant cells. The fungus produces ascospores in structures called ascocarps, which are embedded in the plant tissue. The ascospores are spread by wind and rain, and can infect new plants when they land on a suitable host.

Disease cycle

The disease cycle of Elsinoë fawcettii begins when ascospores land on the surface of a citrus plant. The spores germinate and penetrate the plant tissue, causing the formation of scab lesions. The fungus then produces new ascocarps within the lesions, which release more ascospores to infect other parts of the plant or other plants.

Management

Management of citrus scab caused by Elsinoë fawcettii involves a combination of cultural practices and chemical control. Cultural practices include pruning infected branches and disposing of fallen leaves and fruit, which can harbor the fungus. Chemical control typically involves the application of fungicides.

Economic importance

Citrus scab caused by Elsinoë fawcettii is a significant disease in many citrus-growing regions of the world, including Florida, Brazil, and Australia. The disease can reduce the yield and quality of citrus fruit, leading to economic losses for growers.