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Rosa roxburghii Tratt. is widely applied in food, cosmetics, and traditional medicine, and has been demonstrated to possess diverse bioactivities. Plant endophytic fungi are important microbial resources with great potential for application in many fields. They not only establish mutualistic symbiosis with host plants but also produce a variety of bioactive compounds. Therefore, in the present study, endophytic fungi were isolated from R. roxburghii , the diversity and antimicrobial activities were evaluated. As a result, 242 strains of endophytic Sordariomycetes were successfully isolated. Multigene phylogenetic analyses showed that these isolates included eight orders, 19 families, 33 genera. The dominant genera were Diaporthe (31.4%), Fusarium (14.4%), Chaetomium (7.9%), Dactylonectria (7.0%), Graphium (4.5%), Colletotrichum (4.1%), and Clonostachys (4.1%). For different tissues of R. roxburghii , alpha diversity analysis revealed that the diversity of fungal communities decreased in the order of root, fruit, stem, flower, leaf, and seed, and Clonostachys and Dactylonectria exhibited obvious tissue specificity. Meanwhile, functional annotation of 33 genera indicated that some fungi have multitrophic lifestyles combining endophytic, pathogenic, and saprophytic behavior. Additionally, antimicrobial activities of endophytic Sordariomycetes against Lasiodiplodia theobromae , Botryosphaeria dothidea , Colletotrichum capsici , Pyricularia oryzae , Rhizoctonia solani , Fusarium oxysporum , Pseudomonas syringae , Pantoea agglomerans , Staphylococcus aureus , Bacillus subtilis , Escherichia coli , and Pseudomonas aeruginosa were screened. Dual culture test assays showed that there were 40 different endophytic species with strong inhibition of at least one or moderate inhibition of two or more against the 12 tested strains. The results from the filter paper diffusion method suggested that extracellular metabolites may be more advantageous than intracellular metabolites in the development of antimicrobial agents. Eleven isolates with good activities were screened. In particular, Hypomontagnella monticulosa HGUP194009 and Nigrospora sphaerica HGUP191020 have shown promise in both broad-spectrum and intensity. Finally, some fungi that commonly cause disease have been observed to have beneficial biological activities as endophytic fungi. In conclusion, this study showed the species composition, alpha diversity, and lifestyle diversity of endophytic Sordariomycetes from R. roxburghii and demonstrated these isolates are potential sources for exploring antimicrobial agents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper reports the first occurrence of Lasiodiplodia theobromae in Brazil nut (Bertholletia excelsa). Cankers were found on branches of 3-year-old Brazil nut plants in Belém, Pará, Brazil. The symptomatic plants displayed reddish vascular lesions. The pathogen was identified using morphological and phylogenetic analyses. Koch's postulates were fulfilled, confirming the first occurrence of L. theobromae in Brazil nut. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dyeing methods that conform to environmental protection requirements and adapt to the development of industry are investigated using bleached poplar wood dyed with melanin secreted by Lasiodiplodia theobromae in this paper. Prolonging the dyeing time of coarse melanin can improve the dye uptake of veneers, and the brightness value increases, and the reflectivity declines with the increase of dyeing time. The stained surface of the vessel is gradually covered by coarse melanin dye, and more melanin particles can be clearly observed accumulating together on the stained surface with agar. Infrared measurements show that the absorption peak of –C=O in carboxylic acid disappears at 1740 cm−1, which can be attributed to the fact that –C=O (1776 cm−1) in an anhydride or ketone group is formed by further oxidation and condensation of agar and NaOH. The veneer dyed for 6 h showed a well light and water resistance. Additionally, dyeing can improve the wettability of water, phenolic resin, and urea formaldehyde resin on the surface of veneer. These results support the use of pigment secreted by stain fungi for wood and provide data for evaluating their use as sustainable materials for other applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Phytopathogen fungi are responsible for serious plant diseases which might negatively affect crop productivity [[1]]. Lastly, two review papers within the special issue deal with the occurrence of secondary metabolites produced by plant pathogenic fungi. A newly HRAM UPLC-MS/MS method for the screening of the phytotoxic metabolites botrydial and dihydrobotrydial associated with the phytopathogenic fungi I Botrytis cinerea i was developed and validated by Huang et al. [[9]]. [Extracted from the article]

Ethnomedicinal plants are thought to have better prospects of harboring endophytes that produce natural products with pharmacological activities. This study aimed to investigate the antiplasmodial and anticancer properties of secondary metabolites of endophytic fungi from three medicinal plants. The endophytic fungi included Lasiodiplodia theobromae isolated from Cola acuminata, Curvularia lunata Bv4 isolated from Bambusa vulgaris, and Curvularia lunata Eg7 isolated from Elaeis guineensis. The identification of the fungi was based on the internal transcribed spacer (ITS-rDNA) sequence. The fungi were subjected to solid-state fermentation and the secondary metabolites were extracted with ethyl acetate. In vitro antiplasmodial screening of extracts was performed using the SYBR green I-based fluorescence assay on the chloroquine-resistant Plasmodium falciparum strain DD2. The cytotoxicity of the extracts on human red blood cells and Jurkat (leukemia) cells was assessed using the tetrazolium-based colorimetric MTT assay. Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC–MS) analysis was used to identify the constituents of the fungal extracts. The extract of L. theobromae showed the best antiplasmodial activity against chloroquine-resistant P. falciparum (IC50 = 5.4 µg/mL) and was not harmful to erythrocytes (CC50 > 100 µg/mL). All three fungal extracts showed a weak cytotoxic effect against Jukart cell lines (CC50 > 100 µg/mL). GC–MS analysis of the three endophytic fungal extracts revealed the presence of forty major bioactive compounds, including: oxalic acid, isobutyl nonyl ester, 2,4-di-tert-butylphenol, and hexadecanoic acid, among others. The endophytic fungi from the medicinal plants in this study were promising sources of bioactive compounds that could be further evaluated as novel drugs for the treatment of malaria caused by P. falciparum-resistant strains. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Backroud: Keratitis caused by Lasiodiplodia theobromae is rare and typically associated with a poor prognosis. Current literature lacks sufficient evidence on effective management of patients with this condition. Case presentation: A 74-year-old former agricultural worker presented with a red right eye, discomfort, and decreased visual acuity, progressing over three days without treatment. Examination revealed type 2 diabetes and a non-perforating, spiculated corneal abscess with a hypopyon in the right eye. Initial treatment included a triple antibiotic therapy and supportive care. Direct mycological examination identified numerous septate mycelial filaments. Antifungal treatment with natamycin and voriconazole, both topically and orally, was initiated. Cultures confirmed Lasiodiplodia theobromae. The patient showed significant improvement. Treatment continued for eight weeks, with a final visual acuity of 20/50 due to a stromal scar. Conclusion: An extensive literature review conducted in November 2023, using databases such as PubMed and Google Scholar with the keywords "lasiodiplodia" and "keratitis" yielded no previous cases of this specific condition being managed solely with the combined use of natamycin and voriconazole. This antifungal combination is commonly included in most management protocols for fungal keratitis. Factors such as the use of corticosteroids and delayed diagnosis were noted to adversely affect the prognosis. This case and this systematic review underscores the potential for non-surgical management options in severe fungal keratitis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper reviews production of some metabolites by a soil fungus Botryodiplodia theobromae, including enzymes, hormones, exopolysaccharides, and paclitaxel/taxol, for therapeutic use, and for food industry.Paclitaxel, an anti-cancer agent, is produced when the fungus grows as an endophytic fungus. B. theobromae produces linear and branchedexoplysaccharide β-glucan, called lasiodiplodin, which shows various therapeutic activities: anti-tumor, hypoglycemic, anti-coagulant, anti-cancer, while protecting against DNA damage. Lasiodiplodins also show cytotoxicity against murine leukemia cell line. The fungus is known to produce amylase and glucoamylase to degrade starch into sugar for various process in food industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Objective] To clarify the pathogenic fungus of passion fruit stem rot and its biological characteristics, and to provide theoretical basis for its scientific prevention and control. [Method] This paper used the conventional isolation method of phytopathogenic fungi to isolate the stem-base rot pathogen of passion fruit collected from Guangxi under different ecological conditions. The morphological characteristics were observed and the pathogenic traits were determined. The rDNA-ITS sequences were analyzed to identify the pathogenic fungus causing passion fruit stem rot. [Result] The same morphological strain 32-WUB3 was isolated from typical pass ion fruit stem rot symptomatic plants collected from various pass ion fruit planting bases in Guangxi. After morphological, molecular biological and pathogenicity tests, Lasiodiplodia theobromae was identified as the causal agent of passion fruit stem rot. The mycelial growth rate of the pathogen was high at 28 and 30°C. The colony diameters were 8. 27 and 8. 31 cm, respectively, which were extremely significantly higher than those at other temperatures (P < 0. 01, the same as below). The fastest mycelial growth was under full light conditions, with a colony diameter of 8. 49 cm. Its diameter was extremely significantly higher than that of colonies in total darkness, and significantly higher than that of colonies in half light and half darkness (P < 0. 05, the same as below). The optimum pH for mycelial growth was 3. 00 - 8. 00. In this pH range, the mycelium grew faster and the colony diameter reached 8. 10 - 8. 44 cm. The difference between treatments was not significant( P > 0. 05), but there was a significant difference in colony diameter from pH 9. 00 to 11. 00 for each treatment. Mycelium grew the fastest in PDA medium. Its colony diameter reached 9. 00 cm, which was extremely significantly higher than the colony diameter of other media Mycelium grew the fastest when the car bon source was glucose. The colony diameter reached 7. 78 cm, which was significantly higher than the colony diameter of other carbon sources. The mycelium grew the fastest when the nitrogen source was yeast powder. The colony diameter was 7. 13 cm. The nitrogen sources as followed were peptone, DL-alanine, L-arginine and glycine. The differences among the treatments were not significant, but all were significantly higher than the colony diameter with beef paste, urea, ammonium dihydrogen phosphate, ammonium chloride, L-lysine and CK as the nitrogen source. The mycelial lethal conditions of this pathogenic mycelium were 52°C and 10 min of treatment [Conclusion] L. theobromae is the causal agent of stem rot of passion fruit The suitable temperature for mycelial growth of this pathogen was 28 - 30°C, pH was 3. 00 - 8. 00, lighting was full light, and the medium was PDA The carbon source was glucose, the nitrogen source was yeast powder, and the mycelial lethal condition was treatment at 52°C for 10 min. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Trunk canker poses a major threat to the production of Chinese hickory tree (Carya cathayensis Sarg.), which is primarily determined by Botryosphaeriaceae. In our previous work, we identified Botryosphaeria dothidea as the predominant pathogen of this disease. However, it is still unclear about corresponding gene families and mechanisms associated with B. dothidea's pathogenicity on Chinese hickory tree. Here, we present a comparative analysis of high-quality genome assemblies of Botryosphaeria dothidea and other isolated pathogens, showing highly syntenic relationships between B. dothidea and its closely related species and the conservative evolution of the Botryosphaeriaceae family. Higher GC contents were found in the genomes of B. dothidea and three other isolated pathogens (Botryshaeria cortices, Botryshaeria fabicerciana, and Botryshaeria qingyuanensis) compared to Macrophomina phaseolina, Neofusicoccum parvum, Diplodia corticola, and Lasiodiplodia theobromae. An investigation of genes specific to or expanded in B. dothidea revealed that one secreted glucanase, one orsellinic acid biosynthesis enzyme, and two MFS transporters positively regulated B. dothidea's pathogenicity. We also observed an overrepresentation of viral integrase like gene and heterokaryon incompatibility proteins in the B. dothidea's genome. In addition, we observed one LRR-domain-containing protein and two Sec-domain-containing proteins (Sec_1 and Sec_7) that underwent positive selection. This study will help to understand B. dothidea's pathogenicity and potential influence on the infection of Chinese hickory, which will help in the development of disease control and ensure the security of Chinese hickory production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The aim of this paper is to report the successful management of the first case of Lasiodiplodia theobromae keratitis in Hong Kong. Methods: We conducted a case report. Results: A 43-year-old Chinese male with a history of diabetes developed left eye keratitis after a trauma during tree felling. Fungal keratitis was diagnosed using a confocal microscope on day 1, and L. theobromae was confirmed from the culture. He was given oral voriconazole, topical natamycin, and topical and intracameral amphotericin B. The patient's condition improved after the initial treatment. However, there was a slow progression to descemetocele formation and impending perforation due to corneal melting. Penetrating keratoplasty was performed at 8 weeks after presentation. Final visual recovery was good with no recurrence of infection. The cornea remained clear. Conclusions: We report the first case of L. theobromae keratitis in Hong Kong, and it is the only case so far that involved the use of oral voriconazole in the combination therapy. Early recognition with the aid of confocal microscopy allowed the early start of treatment. The use of newer antifungal voriconazole topically and orally combined with topical amphotericin B appeared to be useful in the eradi cation of the fungus and prevention of recurrence. Intracameral antifungals might have improved the clinical management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article reports the first occurrence of Lasiodiplodia theobromae causing leaf blight on Coffea canephora (robusta coffee) in the Philippines. The disease was observed in a coffee plantation in the Soccsksargen region, which is a major coffee production area in the country. The symptoms included brown to black necrotic lesions on the leaf margins, with a 100% incidence rate among the trees. The fungus was isolated and identified as L. theobromae based on its morphological and genetic characteristics. This finding highlights the need for management strategies to mitigate the impact of the disease on coffee production. [Extracted from the article]

High temperatures associated with a fluctuating climate profoundly accelerate the occurrence of a myriad of plant diseases around the world. A comprehensive insight into how plants respond to pathogenic microorganisms under high-temperature stress is required for plant disease management, whereas the underlying mechanisms behind temperature-mediated plant immunity and pathogen pathogenicity are still unclear. Here, we evaluated the effect of high temperature on the development of grapevine canker disease and quantified the contribution of temperature variation to the gene transcription reprogramming of grapevine and its pathogenic agent Lasiodiplodia theobromae using a dual RNA-seq approach. The results showed that both grapevine and the pathogen displayed altered transcriptomes under different temperatures, and even the transcription of a plethora of genes from the two organisms responded in different directions and magnitudes. The transcription variability that arose due to temperature oscillation allowed us to identify a total of 26 grapevine gene modules and 17 fungal gene modules that were correlated with more than one gene module of the partner organism, which revealed an extensive web of plant–pathogen gene reprogramming during infection. More importantly, we identified a set of temperature-responsive genes that were transcriptionally orchestrated within the given gene modules. These genes are predicted to be involved in multiple cellular processes including protein folding, stress response regulation, and carbohydrate and peptide metabolisms in grapevine and porphyrin- and pteridine-containing compound metabolisms in L. theobromae, implying that in response to temperature oscillation, a complex web of signaling pathways in two organism cells is activated during infection. This study describes a co-transcription network of grapevine and L. theobromae in the context of considering temperature variation, which provides novel insights into deciphering the molecular mechanisms underlying temperature-modulated disease development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dalbergia sissoo Roxb. (Shisham) is a timber-producing species of economic, cultural, and medicinal importance in the Indian subcontinent. In the past few decades, Shisham's dieback disease caused by the fungus Botryodiplodia theobromae has become an evolving issue in the subcontinent endangering its survival. To gain insights into this issue, a standard transcriptome assembly was deployed to assess the response of D. sissoo at the transcriptomic level under the stress of B. theobromae infection. For RNA isolation, the control and infected leaf tissue samples were taken from 1-year-old greenhouse-grown D. sissoo plants after 20 days of stem-base spore inoculation. cDNA synthesis was performed from these freshly isolated RNA samples that were then sent for sequencing. About 18.14 Gb (Giga base) of data was generated using the BGISEQ-500 sequencing platform. In terms of Unigenes, 513,821 were identified after a combined assembly of all samples and then filtering the abundance. The total length of Unigenes, their average length, N50, and GC-content were 310,523,693 bp, 604 bp, 1,101 bp, and 39.95% respectively. The Unigenes were annotated using 7 functional databases i.e., 200,355 (NR: 38.99%), 164,973 (NT: 32.11%), 123,733 (Swissprot: 24.08%), 142,580 (KOG: 27.75%), 139,588 (KEGG: 27.17%), 99,752 (GO: 19.41%), and 137,281 (InterPro: 26.72%). Furthermore, the Transdecoder detected 115,762 CDS. In terms of SSR (Simple Sequence Repeat) markers, 62,863 of them were distributed on 51,508 Unigenes and on the predicted 4673 TF (Transcription Factor) coding Unigenes. A total of 16,018 up- and 19,530 down-regulated Differentially Expressed Genes (DEGs) were also identified. Moreover, the Plant Resistance Genes (PRGs) had a count of 9230. We are hopeful that in the future, these identified Unigenes, SSR markers, DEGs and PRGs will provide the prerequisites for managing Shisham dieback disease, its breeding, and in tree improvement programs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cacao production is a rapidly expanding industry in Puerto Rico, with new farmers planting ~20,000 trees in the past few years. To determine the etiology and extent of diseases affecting cacao in Puerto Rico, a survey was performed at eight sites around the island. Pod rot and/or branch dieback were observed at all sites. Most organisms isolated from symptomatic pod and stem samples were identified as Diaporthe spp. (48%) and Lasiodiplodia spp. (25%) based on sequences of the internal transcribed spacer and large subunit regions. Within these genera, Diaporthe tulliensis and Lasiodiplodia theobromae were the most prevalent species and were used in inoculation studies to determine their relative virulence on pods and stems. Phytophthora palmivora served as a positive control due to its well-established pathogenicity in all tissues. On pods, L. theobromae and P. palmivora caused significantly larger lesions (6.1 and 5.9 cm, respectively) than D. tulliensis (2.7 cm) four days post-inoculation. All three species caused disease on stems, with no differences found among species. Although P. palmivora was thought to be the primary pathogen affecting cacao in Puerto Rico, this study identifies L. theobromae and D. tulliensis as the common pathogens on the island. This improved understanding will help scientists and farmers control disease by selecting fungicides effective against both oomycetes and fungi. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two of the major postharvest diseases impacting grapefruit shelf life and marketability in the state of Florida (USA) are stem-end rot (SER) caused by Lasiodiplodia theobromae and green mold (GM) caused by Penicillium digitatum. Here, we investigated the in vitro and in vivo efficacy of vapors of thymol, a natural compound found in the essential oil of various plants and the primary constituent of thyme (Thymus vulgaris) oil, as a potential solution for the management of GM and SER. Thymol vapors at concentrations lower than 10 mg L−1 significantly inhibited the mycelial growth of both pathogens, causing severe ultrastructural damage to P. digitatum conidia. In in vivo trials, the incidence and lesion area of GM and SER on inoculated grapefruit were significantly reduced after a 5 d exposure to 50 mg L−1 thymol vapors. In addition, the in vitro and in vivo sporulation of P. digitatum was suppressed by thymol. When applied in its vapor phase, thymol had no negative effect on the fruit, neither introducing perceivable off-flavor nor causing additional weight loss. Our findings support the pursuit of further studies on the use of thymol, recognized as safe for human health and the environment, as a promising strategy for grapefruit postharvest disease management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current study examined fungal diversity in manufactured and natural agarwood samples perceived from A. malecensis trees in a plantation and the East Malaysia rainforest. Isolated fungi were also subjected to molecular analysis. The fungal community composition of healthy and damaged tree samples from both plantation and the wild forest was identified using PCR amplification of the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region from fungal isolates. Meanwhile, ten groups of fungi isolates are expected to be placed in both natural and inoculated based on 1000 bootstrap values. They validated earlier genomic identification; 55 fungal isolates were discovered in artificial and natural agarwood, including agarwood and healthy wood. Ten fungal groupings were developed based on morphological characterization similarities. Based on NCBI BLAST analysis, molecular identification revealed Fusarium solani, Botryosphaeria theobromae, Polyporales spp, Schizophyllum commune, Aspergillus aculeatus, and Lasiodiplodia theobromae. Fusarium solani excelled in A. aculeatus and Polyporales spp. in agarwood samples and healthy wood. The presence of more fungi species in natural agarwood than in artificial agarwood may be due to the favourable humid and shaded habitat for fungal growth. Nonetheless, synthetic agarwood was able to synthesize agarwood-related chemical compounds. Considering F. solani was often identified in both agarwood, agarwood inoculant may act as a booster for F. solani to begin pathogenicity in artificial agarwood. The current research shows that artificial agarwood may provide quality comparable to natural agarwood and is not influenced by fungus interacting with the tree. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Stem-end rot disease has been causing damage to the production of pomelos in Vietnam. The cur-rent study aimed to (i) isolate fungal pathogens causing pomelo stem-end rot disease (PSERD) and (ii) discover Trichoderma spp. that had an antagonistic ability against pathogens under in vitro conditions. Fungi causing PSERD were isolated from pomelo fruits with symptoms of stem-end rot disease and collected from pomelo farms in Ben Tre province, Vietnam. Moreover, 50 fungal strains of Trichoderma spp. also originated from soils of these pomelo farms in Ben Tre province and were dual-tested with the fungal pathogen on the PDA medium. The results demonstrated that 11 pathogenic fungi causing PSERD were isolated from the fruit and showed mycelial growth of roughly 5.33–8.77 cm diameter at 72 h after inoculation. The two fungi that exhibited the fast-est growth, namely, S-P06 and S-P07, were selected. ITS sequencing of the S-P06 and S-P07 fungi resulted in Lasiodiplodia theobromae. All the 50 Trichoderma spp. strains were allowed to antago-nize against the S-P06 and S-P07 strains under in vitro conditions. The greatest antagonistic effi-ciency was found in Trichoderma spp. T-SP19 at 85.4–86.2% and T-SP32 at 84.7–85.4%. The two antagonists were identified as Trichoderma asperellum T-SP19 and T-SP32. The selected strains of Trichoderma asperellum were potent as a biological control for fruit plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Grapevines (Vitis vinifera) are important fruit producers in Jordan, and grapevine trunk diseases (GTDs) are suspected to cause problems in many Jordanian vineyards. This study aimed to estimate GTDs incidence and severity in selected vineyards, and to isolate and identify the causal agents associated with GTDs in this country. Field surveys were carried out and representative samples of diseased vines showing GTDs symptoms were collected to isolate and identify the causal organisms. Molecular analyses of DNA sequences of the Internal Transcribed Spacer (ITS) regions of fungal ribosomal DNA (rDNA) were used to confirm the morphological identifications of the fungal isolates. GTDs were present in all the surveyed vineyards. Mean GTD incidence was 44% across all the fields evaluated, ranging from 9 to 69% in individual vineyards. Disease severity ranged from 52–74% (mean = 62%) across all vineyards and locations. A total of 325 fungal isolates were recovered from infected grapevines. The most prevalent pathogens identified were those associated with Botryosphaeria dieback, including Diplodia seriata, Lasiodiplodia theobromae and Neofusicoccum parvum, followed by the Esca disease pathogens Phaeoacremonium parasiticum, P. aleophilum, P. rubrigenum, and Fomitiporia spp. Ilyonectria liriodendri and I. spp., known to be associated with black foot of grapevines, were also isolated. Plant pathogens causing vascular wilts and root rots, including Fusarium proliferatum, F. oxysporum, Verticillium spp., and Rhizoctonia solani, were also identified from diseased plant samples, and were found in mixed infections with GTDs pathogens. Most of the identified pathogens, except those associated with vascular wilt and root rot, are reported for the first time in Jordan. Results of this study indicate that GTDs are widespread in Jordan, and that there is urgent need to adopt a “national strategy” for GTD management in this country. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The present work identified and compared intracellular metabolites and metabolic networks in mycelial cultures of Lasiodiplodia theobromae grown under 12 natural light and 24 hours' dark using a 1 H NMR-based metabolomics approach. Materials and methods: Fungal cultures were grown in potato dextrose media, and metabolites were extracted by sonication with sodium phosphate-buffered saline (pH = 6.0, 10% D2O, 0.1 mM TSP) from mycelium samples collected every week over four weeks. Results: Multivariate analyses revealed that the light exposure group showed a positive correlation within beta-hydroxybutyrate, acetoacetate, acetone, betaine, choline, glycerol, and phosphocholine. On the other hand, phenyl acetate, leucine, isoleucine, valine, and tyrosine were positively correlated with dark conditions. Light favored the oxidative degradation of valine, leucine, and isoleucine, leading to the accumulation of choline, phosphocholine, betaine, and ketone bodies (ketogenesis). Ketogenesis, gluconeogenesis, and the biosynthesis of choline, phosphocholine, and betaine, were considered discriminatory routes for light conditions. The light-sensing pathways were interlinked with fungal development, as verified by the increased production of mycelia biomass without fruiting bodies and stress signaling, as demonstrated by the increased production of pigments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Phytochemical analysis and growth inhibitory effects of plant leaf extracts of Ocimum gratisimum and Azadiracta indica on seed borne fungi of Avocado Pear fruits in the rain forest ecosystem of Rivers State, was carried out. The experiment was laid out in a Completely Randomized Design (CRD) with eight treatments and three replicates. Results showed, the most frequently occurred fungus isolated from infected fruits of avocado Pear was Fusarium pallidoroseum (76.00%), followed by Colletotrichum gloeosporoides (36.00%), while Botryodiplodia theobromae (32.00%) was the least. Phytochemical analysis of leaf extracts of O. gratisimum and A. indica showed the presence of the following phytochemical constituents, essential oil (eugenol), flavonoid, quinones, tannins, saponins and terpenes. Significant differences (P ≤ 0.05) existed among the various phytochemical constituents with quinones (25.0mg/g ± 0.00) having the highest quantity present in O. gratissimum, followed by flavonoid (15.00 mg/g ± 0.02) and tannins being the least (5.20mg/g ± 0.02). The most prevalent phytochemical constituent in A. indica was tarpenes (10.30mg/g ± 0.01), followed by flavonoid (10.25mg/g ± 0.01), Saponins (8.30mg/g ± 0.04) while tannins was the least (2.30mg/g ± 0.03). Radial/mycelial growth of test fungi in potato dextrose agar (PDA) amended with 20, 60, and 100% extracts of O. gratissimum and A. indica were significantly (P ≤ 0.05) reduced when compared with control. O. gratissimum was most inhibitory against the test fungi compared to A. indica. The chemicals, Benlate (Beromyl) were also tested for their efficacy in controlling Avocado Pear rot organisms. Results showed a progressive reduction in growth of the fungi as chemical concentrations used increased particularly at 100ppm. Therefore, this research holds promise for the use of botanicals as an alternative means of synthetic fungicide. It is readily available, eco-friendly and cheaper than synthetic fungicides. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many factors affect the driving force of fungal growth and secretion. To compare the differences of Lasiodiplodia theobromae infected poplar wood, the changes of physical and chemical properties of vertically and horizontally infected poplar wood before and after dyeing were analyzed, and the infection characteristics were studied in this paper. The horizontal infection was more effective than the vertical infection in terms of infection depth, color depth, and microscopic hyphal invasion. The mycelium first intruded into the earlywood tissue and began to secrete a large amount of pigment after twenty days. The crystallinity of mycelium decreased slightly, and the difference in weight loss rate was negligible. The initial contact angle of the dyed specimen on the horizontal infection increased drastically in distilled water, but there was almost no difference between varnish and natural coating. The horizontal infection was more efficient than the vertical infection and had a higher color depth and a better induction effect, which is crucial in future microbial dyeing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pathogenic root/wood rot fungal species infect multiple urban tree species in Singapore. There is a need for sustainable and environmentally friendly mitigation. We report the local Trichoderma strains as potential biocontrol agents (BCAs) for pathogenic wood rot fungal species such as Phellinus noxius, Rigidoporus microporus, and Fulvifomes siamensis. Isolated Trichoderma strains were DNA-barcoded for their molecular identities and assessed for their potential as a BCA by their rate of growth in culture and effectiveness in inhibiting the pathogenic fungi in in vitro dual culture assays. Trichoderma harzianum strain CE92 was the most effective in inhibiting the growth of the pathogenic fungi tested. Preliminary results suggested both volatile organic compound (VOC) production and direct hyphal contact contributed to inhibition. SPME GC-MS identified known fungal inhibitory volatiles. Trichoderma harzianum strain CE92 hyphae were found to coil around Phellinus noxius and Lasiodiplodia theobromae upon contact in vitro and were possibly a part of the mycoparasitism. In summary, the work provides insight into Trichoderma inhibition of pathogenic fungi and identifies local strains with good potential for broad-spectrum BCAs against root/wood rot fungi in Singapore. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Solanum melongena L. (brinjal/eggplant) is a popular vegetable in Sri Lanka. Like many solanaceous crops, brinjal fruits and plants are susceptible to various diseases. The objective of this study was to isolate, confirm pathogenicity and characterize fungal pathogens causing leaf blight, yellowing and necrosis in S. melongena plants in selected localities in Gampaha district, Sri Lanka. Research Method: Fungi associated with symptomatic S. melongena plants collected from three localities in Gampaha district, Sri Lanka, were isolated onto potato dextrose agar and their pathogenicity was tested on healthy S. melongena plants. Fungal isolates that were confirmed to be pathogenic were subjected to morphological and molecular characterization. Findings: Fifteen fungal isolates were obtained from infected leaves of S. melongena plants, and four fungal isolates were confirmed to be pathogenic on S. melongena. Isolates H32a and H32b causing similar disease symptoms were identified as Lasiodiplodia theobromae with 99.81% sequence similarity by the analysis of the internal transcribed spacer region (ITS1-5.8S-ITS2). The remaining two pathogenic isolates were identified as Pseudopestalotiopsis theae and Diaporthe eugeniae, with 100% and 99.82% sequence similarities, respectively. Originality/Value: To our knowledge, this is the first report of leaf necrosis by L. theobromae, leaf yellowing by P. theae and leaf blight by D. eugeniae associated with S. melongena plants in Sri Lanka. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The inhibitory effects and mechanisms of eugenol were studied in pathogenic fungi that were isolated from passion fruit affected with naturally occurring fruit rot; additionally, the effect of eugenol treatment on fruit rot resistance in passion fruit was investigated. The corresponding results demonstrated that the pathogenic fungus causing passion fruit rot was Lasiodiplodia theobromae and that the minimal inhibitory concentration of eugenol against L. theobromae was 0.30 mg/mL. Eugenol significantly inhibited mycelial growth and spore germination of this fruit rot fungus. Further, nucleic acid release, electrical conductivity, and protein and soluble sugar content of the fruit rot fungus gradually increased with increasing eugenol concentrations. Propidium iodide staining revealed that the cell membrane integrity of L. theobromae hyphae was disrupted when treated with eugenol. In addition, eugenol treatment inhibited the spread of disease spot diameter after inoculation with L. theobromae, effectively increased APX, SOD, CAT, POD, 4CL, C4H, and PAL activities, promoted the accumulation of disease-stage-related proteins CHI and GLU, and increased the total phenol and flavonoid content during storage in passion fruit. Overall, these results suggest that eugenol has good application prospects for the effective control of fruit rot in passion fruit. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lasiodiplodia theobromae is a causal agent of Botryosphaeria dieback, which seriously threatens grapevine production worldwide. Plant pathogens secrete diverse effectors to suppress host immune responses and promote the progression of infection, but the mechanisms underlying the manipulation of host immunity by L. theobromae effectors are poorly understood. In this study, we characterized LtCre1 , which encodes a L. theobromae effector that suppresses BAX-triggered cell death in Nicotiana benthamiana. RNAi-silencing and overexpression of LtCre1 in L. theobromae showed impaired and increased virulence, respectively, and ectopic expression in N. benthamiana increased susceptibility. These results suggest that LtCre1 is as an essential virulence factor for L. theobromae. Protein–protein interaction studies revealed that LtCre1 interacts with grapevine RGS1-HXK1-interacting protein 1 (VvRHIP1). Ectopic overexpression of VvRHIP1 in N. benthamiana reduced infection, suggesting that VvRHIP1 enhances plant immunity against L. theobromae. LtCre1 was found to disrupt the formation of the VvRHIP1–VvRGS1 complex and to participate in regulating the plant sugar-signaling pathway. Thus, our results suggest that L. theobromae LtCre1 targets the grapevine VvRHIP1 protein to manipulate the sugar-signaling pathway by disrupting the association of the VvRHIP1–VvRGS1 complex. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mulberry is an important food plant for domesticated silkworm (Bombyx mori L.). Among several root rot diseases reported in mulberry, black root rot caused by Lasiodiplodia theobromae has now emerged as a major disease. The survey was conducted and black root rot incidence was found to be maximum (51.7%) in Coimbatore district and minimum (14.1%) in Erode district. On PDA, L. theobromae covered Petri plate within three days with cottony white fluffy and slowly turned to black colour. All the four isolates were identified by molecular characterisation through PCR with ITS region and sequences were deposited in NCBI database. Among biocontrol agents screened, Trichoderma asperellum TRI 15 and T. virens TRI 37 were found to be inhibitory with 67.7% and 66.6% reduction in mycelial growth. Five mulberry varieties were screened, variety G2 showed resistance and V1 was highly susceptible. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Coscinium fenestratum is a medicinally significant critically endangered plant found in Western Ghats of India. The leaf spot and blight was observed in Kerala during 2021 with disease incidence of 40% in 20 assessed plants in 0.6 hectare. The associated fungus was isolated on potato dextrose agar medium. A total of six morpho-culturally identical isolates were isolated and morphologically identified. Based on morpho-cultural features, the fungus was identified at genus level as Lasiodiplodia sp. which was further authentically confirmed as Lasiodiplodia theobromae by molecular identification with a representative isolate (KFRIMCC 089) using multigene (ITS, LSU, SSU, TEF1 -α , and TUB2) sequence analysis and concatenated phylogenetic analysis (ITS-TEF1 -α -TUB2). Pathogenicity tests were also assessed in vitro and in vivo using mycelial disc and spore suspension of L. theobromae , and the isolated fungus's pathogenic behaviour was confirmed after re-isolation and morpho-cultural features. Literature survey reveals that there are no reports of L. theobromae on C. fenestratum from all over the world. Hence, C. fenestratum is being firstly reported as a new host record for L. theobromae from India. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many fungi reported for endophytic occurrence are better known as plant pathogens on different crops, raising questions about their actual relationships with the hosts and other plants in the biocoenosis and about the factors underlying the lifestyle shift. This paper offers an overview of the endophytic occurrence of Lasiodiplodia theobromae (Dothideomycetes, Botryosphaeriaceae), a species known to be able to colonize many plants as both an endophyte and a pathogen. Prevalently spread in tropical and subtropical areas, there are concerns that it may propagate to the temperate region following global warming and the increasing trade of plant materials. The state of the art concerning the biochemical properties of endophytic strains of this species is also examined with reference to a range of biotechnological applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim To evaluate the in vitro and in vivo antifungal capability of diverse compost teas of endemic Chilean flora inoculated with a consortium of fungal strains of Trichoderma spp. (biocontrol agent) against three important phytopathogens: Botrytis cinerea, Fusarium oxysporum , and Lasiodiplodia theobromae. Methods and results Compost teas were obtained from the endemic flora of Chile (Azara celastrina, Citronella mucronate, Cryptocarya alba, Peumus boldus , and Quillaja saponaria). Eleven Trichoderma strains were isolated, and antagonism tests were performed to develop fungal consortiums with biocontrol properties. The biocontrol effect of compost teas inoculated with Trichoderma consortia was also analyzed. The results showed that the teas possess antifungal activity against B. cinerea and F. oxysporum and, to a lower degree, against L. theobromae. In vitro tests showed that Trichoderma consortiums improved the suppressive effect against B. cinerea (94–97%), F. oxysporum (89–92%), and L. theobromae (51–73%). Peumus boldus tea showed the highest suppressive effect against the plant pathogen L. theobromae. In addition, the in vivo assay showed that tomato plants treated only with Trichoderma or compost tea did not show differences in height with regard to control plants. However, when these two treatments were combined, the best performance in plant height and protection against pathogens was observed. Conclusions This study indicates that the addition of a consortium of Trichoderma strains with intra- and interspecific incompatibilities significantly improves the inhibitory effect of compost teas in in vitro tests against the plant pathogenic fungi, while in vivo it enhances tomato plant growth and reduces plant disease symptoms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The natural abundance, polymer stability, biodegradability, and natural antimicrobial properties of lignin open a wide range of potential applications aiming for sustainability. In this work, the effects of 1% (w/w) softwood kraft lignin nanoparticles (SLNPs) on the physicochemical properties of polybutylene succinate (PBS) composite films were investigated. Incorporation of SLNPs into neat PBS enhanced Td from 354.1 °C to 364.7 °C, determined through TGA, whereas Tg increased from −39.1 °C to −35.7 °C while no significant change was observed in Tm and crystallinity, analyzed through DSC. The tensile strength of neat PBS increased, to 35.6 MPa, when SLNPs were added to it. Oxygen and water vapor permeabilities of PBS with SLNPs decreased equating to enhanced barrier properties. The good interactions among SLNPs, thymol, and PBS matrix, and the high homogeneity of the resultant PBS composite films, were determined through FTIR and FE-SEM analyses. This work revealed that, among the PBS composite films tested, PBS + 1% SLNPs + 10% thymol showed the strongest microbial growth inhibition against Colletotrichum gloeosporioides and Lasiodiplodia theobromae, both in vitro, through a diffusion method assay, and in actual testing on active packaging of mango fruit (cultivar "Nam Dok Mai Si Thong"). SLNPs could be an attractive replacement for synthetic substances for enhancing polymer properties without compromising the biodegradability of the resultant material, and for providing antimicrobial functions for active packaging applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effector proteins secreted by a pathogen not only promote the virulence and infection of the pathogen but also trigger plant defense response. Lasiodiplodia theobromae secretes many effectors that modulate and hijack grape processes to colonize host cells, but the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. Herein, we report LtGAPR1, which has been proven to be a secreted protein. In our study, LtGAPR1 played a negative role in virulence. By co-immunoprecipitation, 23 kDa oxygen-evolving enhancer 2 (NbPsbQ2) was identified as a host target of LtGAPR1. The overexpression of NbPsbQ2 in Nicotiana benthamiana reduced susceptibility to L. theobromae, and the silencing of NbPsbQ2 enhanced L. theobromae infection. LtGAPR1 and NbPsbQ2 were confirmed to interact with each other. Transiently, expressed LtGAPR1 activated reactive oxygen species (ROS) production in N. benthamiana leaves. However, in NbPsbQ2-silenced leaves, ROS production was impaired. Overall, our report revealed that LtGAPR1 promotes ROS accumulation by interacting with NbPsbQ2, thereby triggering plant defenses that negatively regulate infection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Phylloplane fungi is a non-pathogenic fungi on the leaf surface that can be used to control plant diseases caused by pathogens. One of the most damaging banana plant diseases is fusarium wilt, caused by the pathogenic fungi Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. Cubense (Foc). Mangrove plant Rhizophora apiculate is widely distributed and is a high-diversity area where microorganisms that produce anti-microbial compounds flourish. This plant can be used as a biological agent. This study aims to determine the various phylloplane fungi available from mangrove plant R. apiculata leaves and their potential use against Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. cubense (Foc) in banana plants (Musa acuminata L.). All 20 phylloplane fungi were identified through DNA sequencing with identities of 83.88–100%; of those 20, 3 were found that have antagonistic potential against Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. cubense (Foc): Lasiodiplodia theobromae (67.43%), Trichoderma harzianum (66.65), and Nigrospora sphaerica (65.33%). In the in vivo tests, the best inhibition of disease incidence was shown by treatment with Lasiodiplodia theobromae (11.11%). The present study confirmed that phylloplane fungi isolated from R. apiculata can inhibit fusarium wilt disease in banana plant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Canker symptoms were observed on almond trees in the Fez-Meknes region, Morocco. Isolations were conducted from the infected branch and trunk showing internal and external brown lesions. Four representative fungal isolates were screened, and their identities were confirmed by cultural traits and sequence analysis of DNA using two genes, the ITS region (internal transcribed spacer) and calmodulin (cmdA). The identified fungi were Curvularia hawaiiensis, Fusarium ambrosium, Lasiodiplodia theobromae, and Chondrestereum purpureum. The pathogenicity test on almond twigs revealed that these species were pathogenic to their host with different degrees of virulence, with Lasiodiplodia theobromae as the most virulent causing the longest necrotic lesion (285.17 mm) and the death of twigs. Physiological traits analysis of the above-mentioned fungi showed that the optimum mycelium growth response at different temperatures varies from 10 to 35 °C, while the pH ranges between 3.0 and 8.0. This study confirms the presence of canker pathogens on almond trees, which will contribute valuable information to improve the understanding of the contemporary status of almond trees, thus helping the improvement of the management of almond orchards. To our knowledge, all these fungi represent new records in Morocco and some of them are confirmed on the almond trees for the first time in the world. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bamboo is rich in starch and sugars and can be infected by mold and stain fungi, degrading its performance, shortening its service life, and reducing its utilization value. It is crucial to investigate how to protect bamboo against mold and stain fungi. The zone of inhibition test was used to evaluate the antifungal activity of azoxystrobin, kresoxim-methyl, pyraclostrobin and 3-iodo-2-propynyl-butylcarbamate (IPBC) against stain fungi (Botryodiplodia theobromae, Fusarium moniliforme, and Alternaria alternate) and mold fungi (Aspergillus niger, Penicillium citrinum, and Trichoderma viride) to develop new chemicals to protect bamboo against stain fungi and molds. The inhibitory activity of the composite pyraclostrobin and IPBC with different ratios was evaluated. Water-based formulations of the fungi were used to treat the bamboo, and the mold and stain resistance of the bamboo was investigated at different chemical retention rates. The results showed that the antifungal activity of pyraclostrobin was significantly higher than that of azoxystrobin and kresoxim-methyl. Different degrees of inhibitory activities against the stain and mold fungi were observed, and the inhibitory activity was higher against stain fungi than against molds. The three stain fungi were completely inhibited at a 7:3 ratio of pyraclostrobin to IPBC and 0.1% concentration. As the ratio increased, the inhibitory effect against mixed mold strains improved. The control efficacy of the pyraclostrobin formulations Str-1 and Str-2 at 0.1% concentration was 100% against Alternaria alternate and 70.8% against Fusarium moniliforme. The control efficacy of the composite formulations SI-1 and SI-2 at 0.1% concentration was 100% against all three stain fungi and greater than 91.8% against the mixed mold strains. This study provides new insights into the utilization of pyraclostrobin and its composite formulations as new bamboo antifungal agents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Flacourtia montana J. Graham wild edible fruit tree, endemic to the Western Ghats, India was found infected with leaf spot disease. Based on morphological characteristics, molecular analyses (ITS and LSU) and pathogenicity, the pathogen was identified as Lasiodiplodia theobromae (Pat.) Griffon & Maubl. (Botryosphaeriaceae). This is the first report of L. theobromae causing leaf spots on F. montana from Western Ghats, India. Flacourtia montana J. Graham (Salicaceae), is a wild edible fruit tree, endemic to Western Ghats, India, commonly known as Mountain Sweet Thorn and distributed in evergreen and semi-evergreen forests at an altitude upto 1000 m asl. It is a potential fruit-bearing tree as the fruits are rich in reducing and non-reducing sugars, proteins, essential micro and macronutrients (Mundaragi et al., 2015, 2017). The fruits were good source of natural antioxidants, so can be used as a functional food and for pharmaceutical applications (Chand and Azeez, 2021). The commercially viable wine prepared from the fruit contains major phenolic acids and had free radical scavenging property (Mundaragi et al., 2019). Traditional practitioners residing in the Kattunaikka tribe in Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, Kerala, use the bark decoction for liver disorders (Ratheesh et al., 2011). The leaves possess hepatoprotective, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities (Joshy et al., 2016). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In an on‐going investigation of bioactive metabolites producing potential endophytic fungi, the strain Lasiodiplodia theobromae (SJF‐1) was isolated from a medicinal plant Syzygium cumini. The cultural, morphological and molecular identification was done with the SJF‐1 strain. The obtained gene sequence was deposited in NCBI with accession number MG 938644. The methanolic extract of SJF‐1 strain possessed one major bioactive fraction, and it was purified by column chromatography. Further, it was identified as Mellein by various spectroscopic studies (1H, 13C, DEPT‐135°, FT‐IR, ESI‐HR‐MS and 2D NMR). Biologically, Mellein showed potent anti‐Xanthomonas activity with minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values ranging from 1·9 to 62·5 μg ml−1 against 11 Xanthomonas strains, a broad‐spectrum antimicrobial activity with MIC 7·8–31·25 μg ml−1 and 1·9–31·25 μg ml−1 towards both bacterial and fungal strains, respectively. The scanning electron microscope analysis proved the antimicrobial efficacy of a Mellein by rupturing the cell walls of Xanthomonas sp. Molecular docking studies further supported that the Mellein showed good binding interactions with the proteins of Xanthomonas sp. to reduce pathogenicity. Further, in silico pharmacological studies showed that this metabolite exhibited high gastrointestinal absorption properties and promising oral drug bioavailability. We report, anti‐Xanthomonas, in silico docking and pharmacological studies of Mellein from (SJF‐1) strain for the first time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Multifunctional drugs have shown great promise in biomedicine. Organisms with antimicrobial and anticancer activity in combination with antioxidant activity need further research. The Red Sea and the Arabian Gulf coasts were randomly sampled to find fungi with multifunctional activity. One hundred strains (98 fungi and 2 lichenized forms) were isolated from 15 locations. One-third of the isolates inhibited clinical bacterial (Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus subtilis, Vibrio cholerae, Salmonella typhi, S. paratyphi) and fungal pathogens (Talaromycets marneffei, Malassezia globose, Cryptococcus neoformans, Candida albicans, Aspergillus fumigatus) and four cancer cell lines (Hep G2 liver, A-549 lung, A-431skin, MCF 7 breast cancer). Bacterial and cancer inhibition was often accompanied by a high antioxidant activity, as indicated by the principal component analysis (PCA). PCA also indicated that fungal and bacterial pathogens appeared to be inhibited mostly by different marine fungal isolates. Strains with multifunctional activity were found more from the Rea Sea than from the Arabian Gulf coasts. The highest potential for multifunctional drugs were observed for Acremonium sp., Acrocalymma sp., Acrocalymma africana, Acrocalymma medicaginis (activity reported for the first time), Aspergillus sp. Cladosporium oxysporum, Emericellopsis alkaline, Microdochium sp., and Phomopsis glabrae. Lung, skin, and breast cancers were inhibited 85%–97% by Acremonium sp, while most of the isolates showed low inhibition (ca 20%). The highest antifungal activity was observed for Acremonium sp., Diaporthe hubeiensis, Lasiodiplodia theobromae, and Nannizia gypsea. One Acremonium sp. is of particular interest to offer a multifunctional drug; it displayed both antifungal and antibacterial activity combined with high antioxidant activity (DPPH scavenging 97%). A. medicaginis displayed combined antibacterial, anticancer, and antioxidant activity being of high interest. Several genera and some species included strains with both high and low biological activities pointing out the need to study several isolates to find the most efficient strains for biomedical applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Field surveys of E. camaldulensis diseases were conducted during 2019/20 and 2020/21 in Ethiopia. This species was found the most commonly planted in the surveyed fields and were showing stem canker diseases. Sampling was done from diseased stem and branches with clear symptoms. The morphological as well as PCR assay of the ITS1 and ITS2 loci were performed to identify the fungal pathogens. Lasiodiplodia theobromae and Didymella pinodella were the identified fungi. Four nationally licensed fungicides, Vitra (copper hydroxide), Ridomil gold (Metalaxyl-M + mancozeb), Liveshow (Pyraclostrobin + Epoxiconazole), and Sabozeb (Mancozeb) were evaluated for their in vitro efficacy against these fungi at concentrations of 500, 1000, 1500 and 2000 ppm for the management trial. Vitra and Liveshow were found to be the most effective fungicides at 2000 ppm for the control and treatment of Eucalyptus camaldulensis stem canker diseases. The findings from this research will provide foundation for future studies as this is the first report for the management of this Eucalyptus tree disease in Ethiopia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Symptoms of leaf blight, stem canker, and pod rot were observed on T. cacao during a series of samplings conducted in several states of Malaysia from September 2018 to March 2019. The identity of the pathogen that was responsible for the diseases was determined using morphological characteristics, DNA sequences, and phylogenetic analyses of multiple genes, namely, internal transcribed spacer (ITS), elongation translation factor 1-alpha (tef1-α), β-tubulin (tub2), and RNA polymerase subunit II (rpb2). A total of 57 isolates recovered from diseased leaves of T. cacao (13 isolates), stems (20 isolates), and pods (24 isolates) showed morphological features that resembled Lasiodiplodia sp. The identity of the isolates was further determined up to the species level by comparing DNA sequences and phylogenetic analyses of multiple genes. The phylogenetic analysis of the combined dataset of ITS, tef1-α, tub2, and rpb2 elucidated that all of the isolates obtained were Lasiodiplodia theobromae as supported by 97% bootstrap value. The results of pathogenicity tests revealed L. theobromae as the causal pathogen of leaf blight, stem canker, and pod rot of T. cacao. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study is to assess the antifungal action of Averrhoa bilimbi fruit and Garcinia mangostana pericarp ethanolic extracts in altering the morphology and causing cellular damage of Fusarium oxysporum, Fusarium proliferatum, Colletotrichum gloeosporioides and Lasiodiplodia theobromae. The pathogens were cultured on media containing both extracts individually and carbendazim as positive control, whereas media alone as negative control. All samples were processed for microscopy observations using scanning (SEM) and transmission electron (TEM) microscopes. Observation via SEM showed significant alterations in the hyphae of F. oxysporum, F. proliferatum and C. gloeosporioides compared to the control in which the hyphae were in normal form. However, no significant alteration in hyphae had been observed in the treated plate compared to the control for L. theobromae. The development of calcium carbonate crystals was also observed abundantly in control compared to treated pathogens for F. oxysporum and F. proliferatum only. This indicated that the plant extracts can inhibit some metabolic processes in the pathogens too. Observations via TEM had been conducted for F. proliferatum and C. gloeosporioides, respectively. The results showed disintegration of cytoplasmic organelles and cell wall, intense vacuolization and lyses part of fungal cells. The plant extracts have equivalent or even greater effects compared to commercial fungicide carbendazim. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The antifungal efficacy of ethanolic extracts of peels and seeds of mango (cvs. Ataulfo, Manila, Kent and Creole) at concentrations of 2.5, 5, 7.5 and 10% w/v were assessed. Nanostructured coatings based on chitosan nanoparticles (CNPs), chitosan‐peel extracts nanoparticles (CPNP) and chitosan‐seed extracts nanoparticles (CSNP) were evaluated in the four mango cultivars. The volatile composition of the extract was measured by GC/ME. For the nanoparticles (NP), dynamic light scattering (DLS), Zeta potential and Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) of CNP, CPNP and CSNP, and the in vitro and in situ effects of the nanocoatings on various postharvest phytopathogens were also tested. Of the 42 volatile found, 11 exhibited antimicrobial activity. Among these, α‐pinene was present in all cvs and Creole. The average NP sizes were 5 ± 2.76 nm for CNP, 4.123 ± 1.23 nm for CPNP and 3.11 ± 1.06 nm for CSNP with Zeta potentials of −1.94 mV, −2.26 mV and − 4.53 mV respectively. The peel extracts were more efficient at reducing mycelial growth. The most sensitive fungi were Colletotrichum asianum and Talaromyces variabilis. The CPNP completely inhibited the in vitro growth of C. asianum, Fusarium solani, Lasiodiplodia theobromae, Neofusicoccum oculatum, Pestalotiopsis mangiferae and T. variabilis. The lowest disease incidence was 20% for the cv. Manila with the nanocoating of CSNP, while in cv Kent, an infection reduction of 50% was achieved with the nanocoating of CPNP. Lower disease severity was with both nanocoatings in cv. Kent. The use of Nanocoatings from mango residues could be an excellent option as a natural antifungal agent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mango sudden death (MSD) or quick decline (QD) is the most destructive disease found in mango orchards of Pakistan and is characterized by collapse of the vascular system by Ceratocystis fimbriata and Lasiodiplodia theobromae. Cultural practices, chemicals, and biological control are the most valuable tools for the management of MSD, but the role of micronutrient deficiencies has remained an area that is heavily ignored by the farming community. To study the impact of micronutrients, four mango orchards were selected at different locations where different combinations of micronutrients, i.e., Zinc (Zn), Boran (B), and Copper (Cu) in the form of Zinc sulphate (ZnSO4), Borax/Boric acid (H3BO3), and Copper Sulphate (CuSO4), were applied both foliar and in drench along with the recommended doses of Nitrogen: Phosphorous: Potassium (NPK), and Farmyard manure (FYM), respectively. The quantities of micronutrients were determined from the soil and leaves before and after application of the treatments. The impact of micronutrients was measured in terms of reduction in disease severity and increase in fruit yield. The results revealed that the application of all three micronutrients both in soil drench and in foliar form significantly decreased the disease severity at three locations and increased the yield in all four mango orchards. Application of ZnSO4 (0.8%), +H3BO3 (0.8%), +CuSO4 (0.5%) and as soil drench ZnSO4 (400 g) + Borax (200 g) + CuSO4 200 g plant−1 proved to be the best treatments, with an average of 12.88 and 14.03% reduction in disease severity and with an average yield of 128 and 119 kg, respectively. The application of micronutrients would be a promising solution in an integrated disease management program used to tackle MSD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the present research was to identify and analyse the biocontrol capacity of nine local Trichoderma spp. isolates against Lasiodiplodia theobromae. The isolates were identified as T. asperellum (3), T. harzianum (5) and T. koningiospsis (1). These fungi significantly slowed L. theobromae mycelial development in vitro, with maximum reductions of 75.4 and 64.1% reported with T. asperellum BRS-1 and T. harzianum BRS-7, respectively. The antagonistic fungi were able to inhibit the growth of L. theobromae through the production of mycotoxic compounds. After 5 days of incubation, the fungi produced a large number of conidia and targeted lytic enzymes in solid-state fermentation (SSF). The principal component analysis (PCA) clustered Trichoderma strains according to their phylogenetical relationships and demonstrated a tight association between the species sub-group and antagonistic features. These findings suggest that local soil-derived Trichoderma spp. have the potential to be efficient biological agents against L. theobromae. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Macadamia (Macadamia integrifolia) trees are an important source of revenue in rainforest ecosystems. Their nuts are rich in vitamins, minerals, fiber, antioxidants, and monounsaturated oils. The fungus Lasiodiplodia theobromae, however, is a major disease problem, causing kernel rot and other disease symptoms. In the present study, a dual confrontation assay was used to evaluate the inhibitory effect of an endophytic strain of Trichoderma hamatum C9 from macadamia root against L. theobromae. Volatiles and cell-free culture filtrate of T. hamatum were also used to assess their antifungal activity against L. theobromae. Results suggested that T. hamatum exhibited a significant inhibitory effect against L. theobromae in vitro. Further results of a biocontrol assay indicated that a spray treatment of T. hamatum conidial suspension significantly decreased the size of lesions caused by artificially inoculated L. theobromae onmacadamia leaves, as well as the disease index in young trees inoculated with L. theobromae, relative to sterile water controls. Collectively, our findings indicate that T. hamatum C9 represents a potential biocontrol agent that can be used to manage L. theobromae on macadamia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In Tunisia, common fig (Ficus carica L., Moraceae) is a very ancient fruit crop, very important and still regaining interest. It is cultivated throughout Tunisia from the south to the north and from the east to the west. In July 2020, a severe unusual branch dieback and stem canker was observed on fig cv. 'Zidi' trees in a commercial orchard in north‐eastern Tunisia. Disease incidence was 50% and symptoms observed on the 10‐year‐old infected trees included wilt, defoliation, branch dieback and trunk and shoot cankers. The current study aimed to characterize the pathogen (s) associated with observed fig dieback and to study their pathogenicity. The causal agent has been identified as belonging only to the species Lasiodiplodia theobromae based on morphological characters and phylogenetic analyses, using combined sequences of ITS, tef1 and β‐tubulin (tub2) genes. Pathogenicity tests performed on 1‐year‐old detached and green shoots demonstrated that L. theobromae was pathogenic to common fig cv. 'Zidi'. Symptom development was visible after 7–15 days of incubation at 25°C showing the aggressive behaviour of L. theobromae towards fig shoots. Cvs. 'Chetoui', 'Zidi', 'Bidhi Bghal' and 'Bither Abyadh' were less susceptible compared to the more susceptible cvs. 'Soltani' and 'Bidhi 2'. To our knowledge, this study is the first report on common fig canker and dieback disease caused by L. theobromae in Tunisia and Africa. Considering the severe and rapid progress of this disease, prevention and management strategies should be implemented urgently to reduce its incidence and reduce fig tree losses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dragon fruit (Hylocereus polyrhizus) is an economically promising fruit in Bangladesh. The cultivation of dragon fruit has increased fourfold within a decade due to its popularity. Recently, a new disease known as stem canker was reported in some plantations of dragon fruit in Bangladesh, which forced some farmers to abandon their cultivation. This study aimed to explore the morphological, molecular, and cultural characteristics as well as host range of the causal agent associated with this destructive disease. Morphologically similar eight fungal isolates were recovered from eight canker symptomatic dragon fruit stems. Among them, two isolates (namely BU‐DLa 01 and BU‐DLa 02) were used for a detailed study. Morphological parameters and phylogeny of sequence data of internal transcribed spacer (ITS1, 5.8S rRNA, and ITS2), β‐tubulin, and translation elongation factor 1‐α identified the isolates as Lasiodiplodia theobromae. The cultural features were studied hinged on the growth of the two isolates on various media, temperature, and pH. Though the mycelial growth of the fungi was supported by all the media tested, potato dextrose agar was the most suitable one for both isolates. The fungi thrived well at a temperature of 25–35°C and 5.5–6.5 pH. Inoculation trials of dragon fruit stem ascertained Koch's postulate. In host range test, the isolates were found pathogenic toward mango, guava, banana, and the fruits of dragon fruit. These data will contribute not only to understanding the biology of L. theobromae as a newly recognized pathogen of H. polyrhizus but also will help in designing a proper management package against this pathogen. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Microalgae and cyanobacteria are rich sources of numerous phytochemical compounds with intrinsic antifungal potential. This research aimed to screen the phytochemical compounds and contents, as well as the antioxidant profiles, in eight cyanobacterial and two microalgal strains isolated from soil and brackish water habitats in Egypt. Our study also evaluated their antifungal activities against three phytopathogenic fungi—namely, Pythium ultimum, Fusarium solani, and Botryodiplodia theobromae, which are known to cause severe plant loss. The biochemical compounds were obtained from the cyanobacterial and algal methanolic extracts, and were identified through comparative phytochemical analyses related to the inhibition of the fungal pathogens. Comparative qualitative analyses of alkaloids, steroids, glycosides, and saponins were also carried out. The quantitative phytochemical screening of the cyanobacterial and algal strains investigated revealed the presence of xylanase, glucanase, and chitinase enzymes, along with some bioactive compounds, such as phenolics, flavonoids, proteins, neutral sugars, and carotenoids, which were species-dependent and detected in variable amounts in the extracts. The unicellular green microalgal strain Dunaliella sp. HSSASE13 displayed the highest level of antioxidant activity. However, the highest antifungal activities were shown by the heterocystous cyanobacterial strain Anabaena sp. HSSASE11 (83.94%), followed by Dunaliella sp. HSSASE13 (81.94%) and the non-heterocystous cyanobacterial strain Oscillatoria nigro-viridis HSSASE 15 (63.42%), against the three fungal pathogens B. theobromae, F. solani, and P. ultimum, respectively. Our results indicate that the highest significant and positive correlations of flavonoids (r = 0.854), phenolics (r = 0.785), DPPH scavenging activity (r = 0.876), total proteins (r = 0.808), xylanase activity (r = 0.876), glucanase activity (r = 0.746), and total neutral sugars (r = 0.764), in terms of their antifungal activities, were recorded against F. solani. Conclusively, the cyanobacterial and algal strains tested in the present study can be useful agents for the management and biocontrol of plant-infecting fungal pathogens. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The insect pinhole borer, Euplatypus sp., infests rubber tree trunks and induce bleeding symptom which is different to that caused by the fungal pathogen Lasiodiplodia theobromae (Pat. Griff. & Maubl.). Pinholes are very prominent as the insect bore the trunk and exudates of latex are very noticeable in the infested trunk portion. The borer would extend its damage until the sapwood of the tree, leaving a powder-like sawdust in the ground. The death of the pinhole borer-infested trees is very likely to happen if remedial insecticide application cannot be instituted immediately. In addition, the fungus L. theobromae and an unknown bacterium were found associated with the pinhole borer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Leaf spot disease caused by Lasiodiplodia theobromae and Alternaria tenuissima is a seriously fungal disease in kiwifruit production. In this study, the co-application of tetramycin and chitosan against leaf spot disease in kiwifruit and its effects on the disease resistance, photosynthesis, quality and amino acids of kiwifruit were investigated. The results show that tetramycin exhibited an excellent antifungal activity against L. theobromae and A. tenuissima with EC50 values of 2.37 and 0.16 mg kg−1. In the field, the foliar co-application of tetramycin and chitosan could effectively control leaf spot disease with control efficacy of 89.44% by spraying 0.3% tetramycin aqueous solutions (AS) 5000 time liquid + chitosan 100 time liquid, which was significantly (ANOVA, p < 0.01) higher than 79.80% of 0.3% tetramycin AS 5000 time liquid and 56.61% of chitosan 100 time liquid. Simultaneously, the co-application of tetramycin and chitosan was more effective than tetramycin or chitosan alone in enhancing the disease resistance and photosynthesis of kiwifruit leaves, as well as improving the quality and amino acids of kiwifruit fruits. This work highlights that chitosan is a practicable, cost-effective and eco-friendly adjuvant of tetramycin for controlling leaf spot disease of kiwifruit, enhancing resistance and photosynthesis of leaves and improving quality and amino acids of fruits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]