Typhula incarnata - Тифула инкарнатная - Pink Snow Mold - Rote Schneeschimmel 3/10/15
Typhula incarnata, commonly known as Pink Snow Mold, is a fungus belonging to the Typhulaceae family. It is a plant pathogen that causes snow mold disease, primarily affecting cool-season grasses in regions where snow cover persists for extended periods.
The fruiting bodies of T. incarnata are small and slender, measuring 1-3 mm in diameter and up to 5 cm in length. They are typically white to pale pink in color and have a smooth, shiny surface.
Pink Snow Mold thrives in cold, wet conditions, particularly under snow cover. It grows on the leaves and stems of grasses, causing discoloration, lesions, and in severe cases, the death of the plant tissue.
The distribution of T. incarnata is mainly found in temperate and cold regions of North America, Europe, and Asia, where snow cover is common during winter months.
The spores of T. incarnata are elliptical, measuring approximately 10-18 µm in length and 4-7 µm in width. They are hyaline, smooth-walled, and germinate to produce thread-like mycelium.
T. incarnata is a necrotrophic fungus, meaning it feeds on dead or dying plant tissue. It secretes enzymes that break down plant cell walls, allowing the fungus to absorb nutrients.
The disease caused by T. incarnata is most commonly observed on turfgrass, particularly on golf courses, lawns, and other maintained grassy areas.
Control measures for Pink Snow Mold include maintaining proper turfgrass management practices, such as adequate fertilization, mowing, and irrigation. Fungicides may also be applied to prevent or control the disease.
Typhula incarnata is not considered to be of culinary or medicinal interest due to its pathogenic nature and small size.
Despite its negative impact on turfgrass, T. incarnata plays an important ecological role in breaking down plant material and recycling nutrients in natural environments.
In summary, Typhula incarnata is a cold-loving fungus that causes Pink Snow Mold disease in cool-season grasses. It thrives under snow cover and can be found in temperate and cold regions where winter snow is common. Proper turfgrass management practices and fungicide applications can help control the spread of this fungal pathogen.
Typhula incarnata - Тифула инкарнатная - Pink Snow Mold - Rote Schneeschimmel