Sclerotinia borealis

Sclerotinia borealis is a fungal species belonging to the family Sclerotiniaceae. It is known for its role as a plant pathogen, causing significant damage to a variety of crops worldwide.

Taxonomy

The species was first described in 1917 by mycologist J.C. Arthur. It belongs to the genus Sclerotinia, which comprises over 100 species. The name Sclerotinia borealis refers to its northern distribution, with borealis meaning "northern" in Latin.

Description

Sclerotinia borealis is characterized by its white, cottony mycelium, which produces small, black, hard structures known as sclerotia. The sclerotia serve as survival structures, allowing the fungus to persist in the soil during unfavorable conditions.

Distribution and habitat

Sclerotinia borealis has a wide distribution, being found in both temperate and cold regions. It is particularly prevalent in the northern hemisphere, hence its name. The fungus is typically found in soil, but can also infect a wide range of host plants.

Pathogenicity

As a plant pathogen, Sclerotinia borealis can cause significant yield losses in a variety of crops, including canola, soybean, and sunflower. The fungus infects the plant through the roots, causing a disease known as Sclerotinia stem rot. Symptoms of infection include wilting, yellowing of leaves, and the formation of white, cottony mycelium on the stem.

Management

Management of Sclerotinia borealis involves a combination of cultural practices and chemical control. Cultural practices include crop rotation and the removal of infected plant material. Chemical control involves the use of fungicides, although the fungus has shown resistance to some commonly used products.

See also

• Sclerotinia sclerotiorum
• Sclerotinia minor
• Plant pathology

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