Phoma sorghina

Phoma sorghina is a species of fungus that belongs to the Phoma genus. It is known for its pathogenic effects on various crop species, particularly sorghum.

Taxonomy

Phoma sorghina is a member of the Ascomycota phylum, which is the largest phylum of fungi, comprising about 75% of all fungi species. It belongs to the Phoma genus, which includes about 150 species. The species name 'sorghina' is derived from its primary host, the sorghum plant.

Morphology

Like other members of the Phoma genus, Phoma sorghina is characterized by its small, dark, and spherical fruiting bodies known as pycnidia. These structures produce conidia, or asexual spores, which are hyaline and elliptical in shape.

Pathogenicity

Phoma sorghina is a pathogen of several crop species, but it is most commonly associated with diseases in sorghum. It causes a disease known as Phoma leaf spot, which is characterized by the appearance of small, circular, dark brown spots on the leaves of the plant. If left untreated, the disease can lead to significant yield losses.

Management

Management of Phoma sorghina involves a combination of cultural practices and chemical control. Cultural practices include crop rotation and the use of resistant varieties. Chemical control involves the use of fungicides.

See also

• List of sorghum diseases
• Phoma