Helicobasidium purpureum

Wortel violet wortelrot (Helicobasidium brebissonii on Daucus carota)

Helicobasidium purpureum is a species of fungus in the family Helicobasidiaceae. It is known for its distinctive purple coloration and its role as a plant pathogen, particularly affecting the roots of various plants.

Taxonomy

Helicobasidium purpureum belongs to the kingdom Fungi, phylum Basidiomycota, class Agaricomycetes, order Helicobasidiales, and family Helicobasidiaceae. The genus Helicobasidium includes several species, but H. purpureum is one of the most well-studied due to its agricultural impact.

Morphology

The fungus is characterized by its purple mycelium, which can be observed on infected plant roots. The mycelium is typically filamentous and forms a dense network. The basidia, which are the spore-producing structures, are helicoid in shape, a feature that is distinctive to the genus Helicobasidium.

Life Cycle

Helicobasidium purpureum has a complex life cycle that includes both sexual and asexual reproduction. The sexual stage involves the formation of basidiospores on the basidia, while the asexual stage involves the production of conidia. The fungus can survive in soil as sclerotia, which are hardened masses of mycelium that can withstand adverse conditions.

Pathogenicity

Helicobasidium purpureum is a known pathogen of several plant species, including grapevines, potatoes, and various ornamental plants. The fungus infects the roots, leading to root rot and, in severe cases, plant death. Symptoms of infection include wilting, yellowing of leaves, and stunted growth.

Control and Management

Managing Helicobasidium purpureum involves a combination of cultural practices, chemical treatments, and biological control. Crop rotation and the use of resistant plant varieties can help reduce the incidence of infection. Fungicides may be applied to control the spread of the fungus, although their effectiveness can vary. Biological control agents, such as antagonistic fungi and bacteria, are also being explored as potential management strategies.

Related Pages

• Fungi
• Basidiomycota
• Plant pathology
• Root rot
• Mycology