Mucor piriformis

Mucor piriformis is a species of fungus in the family Mucoraceae. It is a common cause of postharvest decay in fruits, particularly pears and apples, and is known for its ability to produce a variety of mycotoxins.

Taxonomy

The species was first described in 1926 by American mycologist Charles Thom and Margaret B. Church. The genus name Mucor comes from the Latin word for "mold", while the species name piriformis refers to the pear-shaped sporangia that the fungus produces.

Description

Mucor piriformis is a fast-growing, white to grayish-white fungus. It produces pear-shaped sporangia, which contain numerous spores. The sporangia are borne on long, slender sporangiophores that arise from the mycelium. The spores are released when the sporangia rupture, and can be spread by wind, water, or insects.

Ecology and distribution

Mucor piriformis is found worldwide, but is particularly common in temperate regions where pears and apples are grown. It is a saprophyte, meaning it obtains its nutrients from dead or decaying organic matter. However, it can also act as a pathogen, causing postharvest decay in fruits. The fungus can infect fruits through wounds or natural openings, and can cause significant losses in stored fruits.

Pathogenicity and control

Mucor piriformis is a significant postharvest pathogen of pears and apples. The fungus causes a disease known as Mucor rot, which is characterized by a soft, watery rot of the fruit. Infected fruits often have a foul smell and are unfit for consumption.

Control of Mucor rot involves a combination of preharvest and postharvest measures. Preharvest measures include proper orchard sanitation and the use of fungicides. Postharvest measures include careful handling of the fruits to prevent wounding, and storage at low temperatures to slow the growth of the fungus.

Mycotoxins

Mucor piriformis is known to produce a variety of mycotoxins, including roquefortine C and cyclopiazonic acid. These toxins can contaminate infected fruits and pose a risk to human health if consumed.

See also

• List of apple diseases
• List of pear diseases