Hendersonula toruloidea

Hendersonula toruloidea is a species of fungus that belongs to the family Hendersonulaceae. It is a pathogenic fungus known to cause diseases in plants, particularly in tropical and subtropical regions.

Taxonomy

The species was first described in 1912 by the British mycologist George Edward Massee. It is the type species of the genus Hendersonula, which was named in honor of the Scottish mycologist Malcolm Wilson Henderson.

Description

Hendersonula toruloidea is a hyphomycete fungus. It produces dark brown to black, spherical conidia that are borne singly on short conidiophores. The conidia are multi-septate and have a roughened outer wall.

Pathogenicity

Hendersonula toruloidea is a pathogen of several plant species. It causes a disease known as Hendersonula branch wilt or Hendersonula tree and vine dieback. The fungus infects the branches and trunks of trees, causing wilting, dieback, and sometimes death of the plant. It is particularly damaging to olive trees and grapevines, but can also infect other fruit trees and ornamental plants.

Distribution

Hendersonula toruloidea is found in tropical and subtropical regions around the world. It has been reported from countries in Africa, Asia, Australia, Europe, and the Americas.

Control

Control of Hendersonula toruloidea involves a combination of cultural practices and chemical treatments. Infected branches should be pruned and destroyed to prevent the spread of the fungus. Fungicides can also be used to protect healthy plants.

See also

• List of olive diseases
• List of grape diseases