Pleospora lycopersici

Pleospora lycopersici is a species of fungus in the family Pleosporaceae. It is a plant pathogen that primarily affects tomato plants, causing a disease known as target spot.

Taxonomy

The species was first described in 1926 by mycologist John N. Couch. It belongs to the genus Pleospora, which comprises over 1000 species of fungi. The specific epithet lycopersici refers to its primary host, the tomato plant (Lycopersicon esculentum).

Description

Pleospora lycopersici is a filamentous fungus, characterized by its thread-like hyphae. The fungus produces spores in structures called asci, which are typical of the Ascomycota division of fungi. The spores are dark brown and have a smooth surface.

Pathogenicity

Pleospora lycopersici is a necrotrophic pathogen, meaning it kills host tissue and then feeds on the dead cells. The fungus infects tomato plants through wounds or natural openings, causing target spot. Symptoms of this disease include brown, circular spots on the leaves, stems, and fruit of the plant. Severe infections can lead to defoliation and reduced yield.

Management

Management of Pleospora lycopersici involves a combination of cultural practices and chemical control. Cultural practices include crop rotation and the removal of infected plant debris. Chemical control typically involves the use of fungicides.

See also

• List of tomato diseases
• Pleosporales