Definition

Fungi that act as plant pathogens are organisms belonging to the fungal kingdom that infect plants, causing diseases. They invade plant tissues, often through spores, and disrupt normal growth by damaging roots, stems, leaves, or fruits. Common fungal plant pathogens include species causing rusts, smuts, mildews, and rots. These pathogens thrive in humid conditions and can significantly reduce crop yield and quality. 

Fungi as plant pathogens

Fungi consist of branching threads (hyphae) that form spore-bearing structures, often invisible to the naked eye. They can remain latent in plants without symptoms. Identification usually requires microscopic examination of spores, and for some species, molecular analysis is needed. 

What symptoms do they cause?

Fungi can enter through natural openings (stomata) or dissolve the cell wall with the help of enzymes and infect the plant. A number of vascular fungi produce wilting symptoms. In addition, fungi may be the causative agents of root rot, stem base infestation, necrotic spots on leaves, or the death of plant parts.

How fungal pathogens spread

Fungal pathogens spread via spores or hyphae entering greenhouses through air, water, or infected plant material. Some species depend on living hosts, while others persist in soil for long periods using survival structures like sclerotia, reactivating when conditions favor infection.

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