Monographella cucumerina

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Monographella cucumerina

Monographella cucumerina is a fungal plant pathogen that causes gummy stem blight in cucurbits. It is a common disease affecting crops such as cucumbers, melons, and pumpkins. The fungus primarily infects the stems and leaves of the plants, leading to wilting, yellowing, and eventual death of the affected tissues.

Symptoms

The symptoms of Monographella cucumerina infection include dark lesions on the stems and leaves, which may exude a gummy substance. Infected plants often exhibit wilting and stunting, with yellowing of the leaves. In severe cases, the entire plant may collapse.

Disease Cycle

Monographella cucumerina overwinters in infected plant debris in the soil. In the spring, spores are produced and spread to healthy plants through wind, water, or contact. The fungus enters the plant through wounds or natural openings, such as stomata, and begins to colonize the tissues, leading to the development of symptoms.

Management

To manage gummy stem blight caused by Monographella cucumerina, it is important to practice crop rotation and remove and destroy infected plant debris. Fungicides can also be used to control the spread of the disease, although resistance may develop over time. Planting resistant cultivars can help reduce the impact of the disease on cucurbit crops.