Sawadaea tulasnei - Савадея туласнеи - Maple Powdery Mildew - Ahorn-Mehltau 9/30/16
Sawadaea tulasnei is a species of fungi 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. Sawadaea tulasnei is known to specifically infect maple trees (Acer spp.), causing a powdery mildew disease that can impact the appearance and health of the host plant.
This fungus produces mycelium, a network of thread-like structures, on the surface of infected plant tissues such as leaves and stems. The mycelium appears as a white, powdery growth, which is a characteristic feature of powdery mildew diseases. Sawadaea tulasnei 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 Sawadaea tulasnei 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.
\
Sawadaea tulasnei 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.
Sawadaea tulasnei - Савадея туласнеи - Maple Powdery Mildew - Ahorn-Mehltau