Pleospora lycopersici is a species of ascomycete fungus in the family Pleosporaceae. It is recognized as a plant pathogen that infects tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) crops. The fungus was first described by Marchal and É.J. Marchal in 1921 after being isolated from tomato fruit (formerly classified under the genus Lycopersicon) in Belgium. Subsequent reports documented its presence in the United States, confirming its role as a tomato pathogen in multiple regions.
Taxonomy
- Kingdom: Fungi
- Division: Ascomycota
- Class: Dothideomycetes
- Order: Pleosporales
- Family: Pleosporaceae
- Genus: Pleospora
- Species: Pleospora lycopersici
Pathogenicity and Host Range
Pleospora lycopersici specifically attacks tomato plants, causing disease symptoms on fruit. Detailed descriptions of the disease manifestations, life cycle, and epidemiology are limited in the available literature, and the species is primarily noted for its association with tomato pathology.
Geographic Distribution
The fungus was initially reported in Belgium and later identified in the United States. Its broader distribution is not extensively documented, but it is presumed to occur in regions where susceptible tomato cultivars are cultivated under conditions conducive to fungal infection.
Scientific Significance
As a member of the Pleosporales, P. lycopersici contributes to the diversity of fungal plant pathogens affecting economically important crops. Understanding its taxonomy and pathogenic potential aids in the development of disease management strategies for tomato production.
References
- Marchal, J. & É.J. Marchal (1921). Original species description.
- Ramsey, G. B. (1934). “Pleospora lycopersici E. and E. March., a Tomato Pathogen in the United States.” Science, 79(2048), 294.
- Species Fungorum and MycoBank taxonomic records.
Note: The article is a concise summary based on current published sources; additional research may provide further details on the biology and control of this fungus.