Phyllachora gratissima

Phyllachora gratissima is a species of fungus in the family Phyllachoraceae. It is a plant pathogen that causes a disease known as black smut on peanut plants. The fungus is native to South America, but has spread to other parts of the world, including North America and Asia.

Description

Phyllachora gratissima is a biotrophic fungus, meaning it derives its nutrients from living plant cells. The fungus produces ascospores, which are the primary means of dispersal. These spores are spread by wind and rain splash, and can infect peanut plants when they land on the plant's surface.

Disease Cycle

The disease cycle of Phyllachora gratissima begins when ascospores land on the surface of a peanut plant. The spores germinate and penetrate the plant's tissue, establishing a mycelium within the plant. The fungus then produces pycnidia, which are structures that produce additional spores. These spores can spread to other parts of the plant, or to other plants, causing further infection.

Management

Management of Phyllachora gratissima involves a combination of cultural practices and chemical control. Cultural practices include crop rotation and the use of resistant varieties. Chemical control involves the application of fungicides.

Impact

Phyllachora gratissima can cause significant yield losses in peanut crops. In addition to reducing yield, the disease can also reduce the quality of the harvested peanuts, as infected nuts are often discolored and shriveled.

See Also

• List of peanut diseases
• Phyllachoraceae
• Peanut