Arthrodermataceae fungi

Arthrodermataceae represent a family of ascomycetous fungi that, while widely recognized for their role in animal dermatology, also interact significantly with agricultural ecosystems. These fungi can act as opportunistic pathogens that impact the health of nursery plants, seedlings, and root systems, potentially causing complex fungal diseases in greenhouse environments.

The disease is caused by fungi of the order Onygenales, which can survive in the soil substrate as saprotrophs before shifting to a parasitic stage. This transition is typically triggered by changes in the soil environment, such as excessive moisture or the accumulation of organic waste, which allows the fungi to colonize plant tissues.

A wide range of horticultural crops, particularly those grown in intensive indoor conditions, are susceptible. These fungi primarily attack the roots and crown area. The damage is often associated with the degradation of root tissues, which disrupts the uptake of water and essential nutrients, leading to reduced yield and poor overall plant vigor.

Symptoms of infestation often manifest as:

• root discoloration and necrotic lesions;
• stunted vegetative growth;
• wilting during peak daylight hours;
• presence of a mycelial mat at the base of the stem;
• gradual chlorosis of the lower leaves.

Protection strategies focus on maintaining soil hygiene and environmental control. Preventive measures include the sterilization of growing media, application of biological control agents like Trichoderma species, and strict management of watering regimes to avoid prolonged soil saturation. Implementing these practices significantly lowers the risk of fungal spread in agricultural plots.