True fungi, or Eumycota, cause a variety of plant diseases. Here are some notable fungal diseases that affect plants:
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Powdery Mildew (various species): This disease is characterized by the presence of white, powdery spots on the leaves and stems of plants. It's caused by several genera of fungi, including Erysiphe and Sphaerotheca.
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Rust Diseases (e.g., Wheat Rust): Caused by various rust fungi (such as Puccinia spp.), these diseases typically produce reddish-brown pustules on plant tissues, leading to leaf deterioration and reduced photosynthesis.
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Fusarium Wilt: Caused by Fusarium spp., this soil-borne fungus infects the vascular system of plants, leading to wilting, yellowing, and eventual death of the plant.
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Root Rot (e.g., Pythium and Phytophthora): This disease affects the roots of plants, leading to poor growth, wilting, and, in severe cases, plant death. It is common in wet soils.
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Anthracnose (e.g., Colletotrichum spp.): This fungal disease impacts a wide range of plants, leading to dark, sunken lesions on leaves, stems, and fruits.
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Botrytis Blight (Gray Mold): Caused by Botrytis cinerea, this fungus affects a variety of crops, particularly in humid conditions, leading to gray, fluffy mold growth on affected tissues.
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Leaf Spot Diseases (various species): Many fungi cause leaf spots on plants, resulting in dark, mottled areas that can lead to defoliation and reduced vigor.
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Sclerotinia Rot: Caused by Sclerotinia sclerotiorum, this fungus creates wet, mushy lesions on plant tissues, particularly in high humidity.
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Blights (e.g., Late Blight): Caused by Phytophthora infestans, this is notorious for affecting potatoes and tomatoes, leading to rapid decay of leaves and tubers.
Management of these fungal diseases may involve cultural practices (crop rotation, proper spacing, and sanitation), the use of resistant plant varieties, and fungicide applications as needed.
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