Phaeosphaerella theae

Phaeosphaerella theae is a species of fungus in the family Mycosphaerellaceae. It is a plant pathogen that primarily affects the tea plant (Camellia sinensis), causing a disease known as Phaeosphaerella leaf spot or tea leaf spot.

Taxonomy

The species was first described in 1927 by mycologist Hans Sydow. The genus name Phaeosphaerella refers to the dark, spherical shape of the fungus's fruiting bodies, while the species epithet theae indicates its association with the tea plant.

Description

Phaeosphaerella theae is characterized by its dark, spherical ascocarps, which contain eight ascospores each. The ascospores are hyaline and have a unique, multi-septate structure. The fungus also produces conidia in asexual reproduction.

Pathogenicity

Phaeosphaerella theae is a necrotrophic pathogen, meaning it kills plant tissue and then feeds on the dead cells. The fungus enters the plant through the stomata and produces toxins that cause cell death. The resulting leaf spots are dark brown and can cause significant yield loss in tea plantations.

Management

Control of Phaeosphaerella theae involves a combination of cultural practices and chemical treatments. Removing infected leaves and improving air circulation can help prevent the spread of the fungus. Fungicides are also used, but resistance can develop over time.

See also

• List of tea diseases
• Mycosphaerellaceae
• Plant pathology