Guignardia mangiferae

Guignardia mangiferae is a species of fungus that belongs to the Botryosphaeriaceae family. It is known for causing a disease known as black spot disease in mango trees.

Taxonomy

The fungus was first described in 1912 by French mycologist Henri Guignard, after whom it was named. It belongs to the Guignardia genus, which comprises around 100 species.

Description

Guignardia mangiferae is a ascomycete fungus. It produces ascospores that are hyaline, unicellular, and have a size of 12-15 x 6-7 µm. The ascocarps are black, spherical, and have a diameter of 120-200 µm.

Pathogenicity

Guignardia mangiferae is the causal agent of the black spot disease in mango trees. The disease is characterized by the appearance of black spots on the fruit, leaves, and twigs. The spots can coalesce, leading to large necrotic areas. The disease can cause significant yield losses in mango plantations.

Management

Management of the disease caused by Guignardia mangiferae involves the use of fungicides, pruning of infected branches, and the use of resistant mango varieties.

See also

• List of mango diseases
• Plant pathology