Phytophthora syringae

Phytophthora syringae is a species of oomycete, or water mold, that is pathogenic to a variety of plant species. It is a member of the genus Phytophthora, which is known for causing serious diseases in plants, including the infamous potato blight that led to the Great Irish Famine in the mid-19th century.

Taxonomy

Phytophthora syringae was first described in 1922 by P.A. van der Plaats-Niterink, a Dutch mycologist. It is classified within the kingdom Chromista, phylum Oomycota, class Peronosporomycetes, order Peronosporales, family Pythiaceae, and genus Phytophthora.

Morphology

Phytophthora syringae produces sporangia, or spore-producing structures, that are papillate and semi-papillate. The oospores, or sexual spores, are thick-walled and globose, with a smooth outer wall. The hyphae, or filamentous structures, are coenocytic, meaning they lack cross-walls.

Pathogenicity

Phytophthora syringae is a plant pathogen that causes diseases in a variety of plant species. It is known to cause root and crown rot in apple trees, pear trees, and peach trees. It can also cause leaf blight in rhododendrons and azaleas, and collar rot in walnut trees. The pathogen is spread through water, including rain and irrigation water, and can survive in soil and plant debris.

Management

Management of Phytophthora syringae involves a combination of cultural practices and chemical control. Cultural practices include proper irrigation management, removal of infected plant material, and use of resistant plant varieties. Chemical control involves the use of fungicides that are effective against oomycetes.

See also

• Phytophthora infestans
• Phytophthora ramorum
• Phytophthora cinnamomi

This Oomycete-related article is a stub. You can help WikiMD by expanding it.