Pucciniastraceae

Pucciniastraceae is a family of fungi in the order Pucciniales. The family is known for its members' role as plant pathogens, causing diseases such as rust in a variety of host plants. The family is named after the genus Puccinia, which is the most well-known and studied genus within the family.

Taxonomy

The family Pucciniastraceae was first described by the German mycologist Friedrich Wilhelm Gottlieb Theodor Fuckel in 1870. The family is part of the order Pucciniales, which is the only order in the class Pucciniomycetes. The family includes several genera, the most notable of which is Puccinia.

Characteristics

Members of the Pucciniastraceae are obligate parasites, meaning they require a living host to survive. They are known for their complex life cycles, which often involve two different host plants. The fungi produce spores that infect the host plant, causing rust diseases.

Economic Importance

Many members of the Pucciniastraceae are significant plant pathogens, causing diseases that can have severe impacts on agriculture and horticulture. For example, Puccinia graminis, the cause of wheat stem rust, can cause significant yield losses in wheat crops.

Research

Research into Pucciniastraceae has focused on understanding the life cycle of these fungi, their interactions with host plants, and methods for controlling the diseases they cause. This research is crucial for developing strategies to manage rust diseases and protect crop yields.

File:Puccinia graminis.jpg

Puccinia graminis, a member of the Pucciniastraceae, on a wheat leaf.

See Also

• List of Pucciniastraceae genera
• Plant pathology
• Fungal plant pathogens and diseases