Tapesia yallundae

Tapesia yallundae is a species of fungus in the family Mycosphaerellaceae. It is a plant pathogen that primarily affects cereal crops, causing a disease known as eyespot.

Taxonomy

The species was first described in 1942 by mycologists C.M. Walters and D. S. Yohalem. The genus name Tapesia is derived from the Greek word tapesios, meaning "long and narrow", while the species name yallundae is named after the Yallunda Flat region in South Australia, where the fungus was first identified.

Description

Tapesia yallundae is a filamentous fungus that produces hyphae and spores. The hyphae are typically white to cream in color, while the spores are brown. The fungus is characterized by its ability to produce ascospores within asci, a trait that distinguishes it from other species in the Tapesia genus.

Distribution and habitat

Tapesia yallundae is found worldwide, but is particularly prevalent in regions where cereal crops are grown. It thrives in cool, moist conditions and is often found in the soil or on plant debris.

Pathogenicity

Tapesia yallundae is a pathogen of cereal crops, causing a disease known as eyespot. The fungus infects the plant through the stomata, causing lesions on the leaves and stems. If left untreated, the disease can lead to significant yield losses.

Management

Management of Tapesia yallundae involves a combination of cultural practices and chemical control. Crop rotation and the removal of infected plant debris can help to reduce the presence of the fungus in the field. Fungicides can also be used to control the disease, although resistance to certain fungicides has been reported.

See also

• List of Tapesia species
• Plant pathology