Pestalotiopsis mangiferae

Pestalotiopsis mangiferae is a species of fungus in the family Amphisphaeriaceae. It is a plant pathogen that primarily affects the Mango tree, causing a disease known as grey blight.

Taxonomy

The species was first described in 1923 by mycologist Sydow, H. & P. Sydow. The genus Pestalotiopsis was established by Italian mycologist Piero Berlese in 1900. The species name mangiferae refers to the host plant, the mango tree (Mangifera indica).

Description

Pestalotiopsis mangiferae is a coelomycete fungus, which means it produces its spores in conidiomata, a type of fruiting body. The conidia of P. mangiferae are multi-septate and pigmented, typical of the Pestalotiopsis genus.

Pathogenicity

Pestalotiopsis mangiferae is a pathogen of mango trees, causing a disease known as grey blight. The disease is characterized by the appearance of greyish spots on the leaves, which can coalesce and cause extensive blight. The fungus can also infect the fruit, causing rot.

Management

Management of Pestalotiopsis mangiferae involves cultural practices such as pruning and removal of infected plant material, and chemical control with fungicides. Resistance breeding is also an important strategy in managing this pathogen.

See also

• List of mango diseases
• Pestalotiopsis