Fusarium decemcellare

Fusarium decemcellare is a species of fungus in the family Nectriaceae. It is a plant pathogen that causes diseases in a variety of crops, including corn, wheat, and barley.

Taxonomy

The species was first described in 1961 by the American mycologist William Gams. It belongs to the genus Fusarium, which includes several other important plant pathogens. The specific epithet decemcellare refers to the characteristic ten-celled conidia of the fungus.

Description

Fusarium decemcellare is characterized by its ten-celled conidia, which are typically curved and have a distinct foot cell. The fungus also produces chlamydospores, which are thick-walled resting spores that allow it to survive in adverse conditions.

Pathogenicity

Fusarium decemcellare is a pathogen of several important crops. It causes Fusarium ear rot in corn, Fusarium head blight in wheat and barley, and Fusarium wilt in various other plants. The fungus produces mycotoxins that can contaminate the affected crops and pose a risk to human and animal health.

Management

Management of Fusarium decemcellare involves a combination of cultural practices, such as crop rotation and the use of resistant varieties, and chemical control with fungicides. Early detection and diagnosis are also important for effective management of the disease.

See also

• List of Fusarium species
• Fusarium wilt
• Fusarium ear rot
• Fusarium head blight