Fulvia fulva

Fulvia fulva, commonly known as Tomato Leaf Mold, is a fungal pathogen that primarily affects tomato plants, but can also infect other members of the Solanaceae family. It is a significant agricultural pest, causing substantial crop losses worldwide.

Overview

Fulvia fulva is a species of fungus in the family Didymellaceae. It is an obligate parasite, meaning it requires a living host to survive. The fungus is known for causing leaf mold in tomato plants, a disease characterized by pale green or yellow patches on the upper leaf surface and a velvety, olive-green mold on the lower leaf surface.

Life Cycle

The life cycle of Fulvia fulva begins when spores land on a suitable host. The spores germinate and penetrate the plant tissue, establishing a parasitic relationship. The fungus then produces more spores, which are spread by wind or water to new hosts.

Symptoms and Damage

Infected plants typically exhibit pale green or yellow patches on the upper leaf surface, with a velvety, olive-green mold appearing on the lower leaf surface. As the disease progresses, the affected leaves may curl, wither, and eventually die. This can lead to reduced yield and fruit quality.

Management

Management of Fulvia fulva involves a combination of cultural practices, chemical control, and resistant varieties. Cultural practices include crop rotation, sanitation, and proper ventilation. Chemical control typically involves the use of fungicides. Resistant varieties of tomatoes have been developed and can provide an effective means of control.

See Also

• Tomato diseases
• Fungal plant pathogens and diseases
• Solanaceae

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