Botryosphaeria dothidea

Botryosphaeria dothidea

Botryosphaeria dothidea on a tree branch

Botryosphaeria dothidea is a species of fungus in the family Botryosphaeriaceae. It is a plant pathogen that causes a variety of diseases in many different plant hosts, including fruit trees, ornamental plants, and forest trees. This fungus is known for causing cankers, dieback, and fruit rots, which can lead to significant economic losses in agriculture and horticulture.

Description

Botryosphaeria dothidea is characterized by its production of dark, pycnidial fruiting bodies on infected plant tissues. These fruiting bodies release conidia, which are asexual spores that spread the infection to new hosts. The conidia are typically hyaline, unicellular, and ellipsoid in shape.

Life Cycle

The life cycle of Botryosphaeria dothidea involves both sexual and asexual reproduction. The fungus overwinters in infected plant material, such as dead branches or fallen leaves. In the spring, the pycnidia release conidia, which are dispersed by rain splash or wind to new host plants. Under favorable conditions, the conidia germinate and infect the host through wounds or natural openings.

Symptoms

Infected plants exhibit a range of symptoms depending on the host species and environmental conditions. Common symptoms include:

• Cankers on branches and stems, which may girdle and kill the affected parts.
• Dieback of shoots and branches.
• Leaf spots and blights.
• Fruit rot, particularly in stone fruits such as peaches and plums.

Host Range

Botryosphaeria dothidea has a wide host range, affecting over 100 different plant species. Some of the most economically important hosts include:

• Apple (Malus domestica)
• Pear (Pyrus communis)
• Peach (Prunus persica)
• Grape (Vitis vinifera)
• Eucalyptus species

Management

Managing Botryosphaeria dothidea involves a combination of cultural practices and chemical controls. Key management strategies include:

• Pruning and removing infected plant material to reduce inoculum sources.
• Improving air circulation and reducing humidity around plants to minimize infection.
• Applying fungicides during periods of high risk, such as wet weather or during the growing season.

Related Pages

• Fungal plant pathogens
• Canker diseases
• Fruit rot