Phytophthora drechsleri

Phytophthora drechsleri is a species of oomycete that is known to cause disease in a wide range of plant species. It is part of the Phytophthora genus, which is classified under the Peronosporaceae family.

Taxonomy

The species was first described by Tucker, C.M. in 1931. It belongs to the kingdom Chromista, phylum Oomycota, and class Peronosporomycetes. The genus Phytophthora is derived from the Greek words 'phyto' meaning plant and 'phthora' meaning destroyer, aptly describing the destructive nature of this group of plant pathogens.

Morphology

Phytophthora drechsleri is characterized by its filamentous, coenocytic mycelium. It produces sporangia that are papillate and semi-papillate, and oospores that are thick-walled and smooth. The hyphae are non-septate and the zoospores are biflagellate.

Pathogenicity

Phytophthora drechsleri is a highly aggressive pathogen that can infect a wide range of host plants, including but not limited to, cucurbits, legumes, papaya, and cotton. It causes diseases such as root rot, stem rot, and fruit rot, leading to significant yield losses. The pathogen is favored by warm and wet conditions, and its spread is facilitated by contaminated soil, water, and plant material.

Management

Management of Phytophthora drechsleri involves a combination of cultural practices, chemical control, and breeding for resistance. Cultural practices include crop rotation, sanitation, and proper irrigation management. Chemical control involves the use of fungicides such as mefenoxam and metalaxyl. Breeding for resistance is a long-term strategy that involves the development of plant varieties that are resistant to the pathogen.

See also

• Phytophthora infestans
• Phytophthora sojae
• Phytophthora ramorum

References

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