Ustilaginomycetes

Ustilaginomycetes is a class of fungi within the phylum Basidiomycota. This class is known for its members' ability to cause plant diseases, specifically smuts, which are characterized by the production of dark, powdery spores. The most well-known species within this class is Ustilago maydis, which causes corn smut on maize plants.

Taxonomy

The class Ustilaginomycetes is divided into two orders: Ustilaginales and Exobasidiales. The Ustilaginales order contains the majority of species within this class, including Ustilago maydis. The Exobasidiales order contains species that cause diseases on dicotyledonous plants.

Morphology

Ustilaginomycetes are characterized by their unique teliospore formation. Teliospores are thick-walled resting spores that are produced in response to unfavorable environmental conditions. In Ustilaginomycetes, these spores are typically dark in color and powdery in texture.

Pathogenicity

Members of the Ustilaginomycetes class are known for their ability to cause plant diseases. These fungi infect the host plant and cause the formation of galls or tumors, which are filled with the fungus's teliospores. The most well-known disease caused by a member of this class is corn smut, caused by Ustilago maydis. This disease causes large, tumor-like galls to form on all parts of the maize plant.

Economic Impact

While diseases caused by Ustilaginomycetes can have a negative impact on crop yields, some cultures have found uses for the infected plants. For example, in Mexico, corn smut (known as huitlacoche) is considered a delicacy and is used in a variety of dishes.

See Also

• Basidiomycota
• Ustilago maydis
• Ustilaginales
• Exobasidiales