Leptosphaeria acuta

2013-05-05_Leptosphaeria_acuta_(Moug._&_Nestl.)_P._Karst_342565

Leptosphaeria acuta

Leptosphaeria acuta is a species of fungus in the family Leptosphaeriaceae. It is commonly found in agricultural fields and is known to cause diseases in various crops. This fungus is characterized by its acute spores and dark pigmentation.

Description

Leptosphaeria acuta produces small, black fruiting bodies known as pycnidia. These pycnidia contain asexual spores called conidia, which are dispersed by wind or rain. The conidia of Leptosphaeria acuta are typically acute at one end, giving them a distinctive appearance.

Hosts

Leptosphaeria acuta is known to infect a wide range of plant species, including cereals, oilseed crops, and grasses. Some common hosts of this fungus include wheat, barley, and canola.

Symptoms

Plants infected with Leptosphaeria acuta may exhibit symptoms such as leaf spots, stem lesions, and premature senescence. In severe cases, the disease can lead to yield losses in affected crops.

Management

Management of Leptosphaeria acuta typically involves cultural practices such as crop rotation, planting resistant varieties, and maintaining proper plant nutrition. Fungicides may also be used to control the spread of the disease.