Exobasidium reticulatum

Exobasidium reticulatum is a species of fungus in the family Exobasidiaceae. It is a plant pathogen that affects members of the Ericaceae family, particularly the Rhododendron genus.

Taxonomy

The species was first described scientifically by mycologists John Axel Nannfeldt and John Ramsbottom in 1943. The genus name Exobasidium refers to the characteristic growth pattern of these fungi, which typically form a layer of mycelium on the surface of their host plants. The species epithet reticulatum refers to the reticulated (net-like) pattern of the basidia in mature specimens.

Description

Exobasidium reticulatum is characterized by its white to pale pink fruiting bodies, which are typically found on the undersides of infected leaves. The fruiting bodies are composed of a layer of mycelium, from which the basidia emerge. The basidia are club-shaped and bear four basidiospores, which are released into the air and can infect new host plants.

Distribution and habitat

Exobasidium reticulatum is found in temperate regions of the Northern Hemisphere, particularly in Europe and North America. It is typically found in forests and other areas where its host plants, members of the Ericaceae family, are common.

Pathogenicity

As a plant pathogen, Exobasidium reticulatum causes a disease known as Exobasidium leaf and flower gall. Infected plants develop abnormal growths, or galls, on their leaves and flowers. The galls are initially green, but turn white as the fungus matures and begins to produce spores. The disease can cause significant damage to ornamental Rhododendron plants, but is generally not lethal.

See also

• List of Rhododendron diseases
• Exobasidium vaccinii, a related species that infects blueberry plants