Macrophoma mangiferae

Macrophoma mangiferae is a fungal species belonging to the Botryosphaeriaceae family. It is known for causing disease in various plant species, particularly the mango tree (Mangifera indica).

Taxonomy

The species was first described in 1912 by mycologist Erwin Frink Smith, who named it Macrophoma mangiferae. The genus name Macrophoma refers to the large (macro-) fruiting bodies (-phoma) produced by species in this group. The species epithet mangiferae refers to the mango tree, one of the primary hosts of this fungus.

Description

Macrophoma mangiferae is a saprophytic fungus, meaning it feeds on dead or decaying organic matter. It produces small, black, spherical fruiting bodies that contain numerous spores. These spores are spread by wind and rain, and can infect plants through wounds or natural openings.

Pathogenicity

Macrophoma mangiferae is a pathogen of several plant species, but is most commonly associated with the mango tree. It causes a disease known as Macrophoma rot, which is characterized by the development of dark, sunken lesions on the fruit. This can lead to significant yield losses in affected orchards.

Management

Control of Macrophoma mangiferae typically involves a combination of cultural practices and fungicide applications. Cultural practices include regular pruning to remove infected branches and improve air circulation, and sanitation measures to reduce the amount of inoculum in the orchard. Fungicides can be used to protect healthy fruit from infection.

See also

• List of mango diseases
• Botryosphaeriaceae
• Plant pathology