Onygenaceae fungi

The Onygenaceae family consists of a diverse group of ascomycetous fungi. While many species are famously keratinophilic, meaning they degrade animal-derived proteins, specific members of this family can act as opportunistic plant pathogens, colonizing injured or weakened tissues of various agricultural and horticultural crops.

The pathogen responsible for the infection acts by producing extracellular enzymes that degrade plant cell wall components. These fungi primarily establish themselves on plants that have been compromised by pests, weather damage, or nutritional stress. Once an entry point is secured, the pathogen spreads through the mycelial network within the plant's epidermis and parenchyma.

Symptoms of an Onygenaceae infection include localized necrotic lesions, chlorosis, and the formation of visible fungal fruiting bodies on the surface of the plant material. Infected areas often become soft and discolored as the fungi break down the organic structure. In severe cases, the affected plant parts may collapse or show signs of premature senescence.

Development and spread are heavily influenced by environmental factors such as high humidity and poor ventilation, which allow fungal spores to germinate and colonize new surfaces. The fungi often persist in soil debris or decaying organic matter, making sanitation a critical aspect of disease management in both greenhouse and field environments.

The economic impact of these infections ranges from yield reduction to total loss of individual plants. Prevention strategies are primarily focused on maintaining plant vigor and environmental hygiene. This includes proper pruning to improve air circulation, prompt removal of diseased debris, and the application of integrated pest management to minimize plant wounds that facilitate infection.

• Improve air circulation around plants.
• Sanitize growing tools and surfaces.
• Rotate crops to break the pathogen cycle.
• Monitor for early signs of tissue necrosis.