Erysiphe cichoracearum - Эризифе цикориевидная - Cichorium Powdery Mildew

Erysiphe cichoracearum - Эризифе цикориевидная - Cichorium Powdery Mildew - Zichorien-Mehltau 8/31/15

Erysiphe cichoracearum is a fungal species belonging to the family Erysiphaceae within the order Erysiphales of the Ascomycota phylum. As an obligate biotrophic plant pathogen, it requires living host tissue to survive and reproduce. This species is known to infect a wide range of plants, particularly those in the Asteraceae family, such as lettuce, sunflowers, and daisies, causing a powdery mildew disease that can impact the appearance and health of the host plant. The fungus produces mycelium on the surface of infected plant tissues such as leaves, stems, and flowers, appearing as a white, powdery growth, which is a characteristic feature of powdery mildew diseases. Erysiphe cichoracearum forms fruiting bodies called cleistothecia, which are small, closed, spherical structures that house the asci, the spore-producing cells typical of the Ascomycota phylum. Each ascus within the cleistothecia generally contains eight spores, known as ascospores. These ascospores are forcibly discharged from the cleistothecia and dispersed by wind to infect new host plants. The fungus can cause a reduction in photosynthesis and plant growth, as well as premature leaf drop in severe infections. Control measures for powdery mildew caused by Erysiphe cichoracearum include cultural practices such as providing adequate air circulation, pruning infected branches, and avoiding excess nitrogen fertilization. Resistant plant varieties, fungicides, and biological control agents may also be employed to manage the disease. Erysiphe cichoracearum is an important subject of study for plant pathologists, mycologists, and naturalists who seek to understand the role of powdery mildew fungi in plant health and disease dynamics. Additionally, the species offers insights into the complex world of fungal diversity and the various ecological roles fungi play in nature.