Colletotrichum coccodes

Colletotrichum coccodes

Colletotrichum coccodes spores under a microscope

Colletotrichum coccodes is a species of fungus in the genus Colletotrichum. It is a significant plant pathogen known for causing anthracnose in a variety of host plants, particularly in solanaceous crops such as tomatoes and potatoes.

Description

Colletotrichum coccodes is characterized by its production of dark, melanized sclerotia and conidia. The conidia are typically hyaline, smooth, and cylindrical, which are produced in acervuli on infected plant tissues. The sclerotia allow the fungus to survive in the soil and plant debris, contributing to its persistence and spread.

Life Cycle

The life cycle of Colletotrichum coccodes involves both asexual and sexual reproduction, although the asexual stage is more commonly observed. The fungus overwinters as sclerotia in the soil or on plant debris. In favorable conditions, conidia are produced and dispersed by water splash or wind, leading to new infections. The pathogen can infect plants at any stage of growth, causing lesions on leaves, stems, and fruits.

Symptoms

Infected plants exhibit a range of symptoms, including dark, sunken lesions on fruits, stems, and leaves. These lesions may coalesce, leading to significant tissue damage. In potatoes, Colletotrichum coccodes can cause black dot disease, characterized by small, black sclerotia on the tuber surface.

Host Range

Colletotrichum coccodes has a broad host range, primarily affecting members of the Solanaceae family. It is a common pathogen of tomatoes (Solanum lycopersicum), potatoes (Solanum tuberosum), and eggplants (Solanum melongena). The fungus can also infect other plant families, although less frequently.

Management

Management of Colletotrichum coccodes involves integrated strategies, including cultural practices, resistant varieties, and chemical control. Crop rotation and sanitation are crucial to reduce inoculum levels in the field. Fungicides may be applied to protect plants, especially during periods of high humidity and rainfall, which favor disease development.

Related Pages

• Anthracnose
• Plant pathology
• Fungal diseases of plants
• Solanaceae